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Exercise normal safety precautions in Vietnam.

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise normal safety precautions  in Vietnam.

• Road accidents are a major cause of injury. Be alert at all times on the roads. 
• Petty theft, including bag slashing, is common in tourist areas and crowded places, especially during holiday times. Snatch-and-grab theft by thieves on motorcycles is also common. Hold bags and backpacks in front of you or on the opposite side to the traffic to make them harder to steal. Be aware of motorbikes approaching as you walk. Carry the minimum amount of valuables. Be prepared to surrender your valuables rather than risk being injured in a struggle.
• Aggravated theft, sexual assault and assault happen. Travellers have been assaulted after having their food or drinks spiked. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. Get urgent medical help if you suspect drink spiking.
• Personal or commercial disputes sometimes lead to threats of physical violence or death. Have a clear agreement on the expected level of service. Report any threats to police.
• Travellers have been robbed withdrawing money from ATMs. Credit and debit card fraud and card skimming happen across Vietnam. Taxi and gambling scams are also common. Only use ATMs in banks and shopping centres. Always keep your credit card in sight. Use metered or prearranged taxis, especially at airports. Report gambling scams to police.
• During the rainy season (June to November), floods, typhoons and severe weather can disrupt essential services. Follow the advice of local officials.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Air pollution levels can be high in Vietnam, particularly in large cities.
• Insect-borne diseases such as dengue, Japanese encephalitis, malaria and zika virus are a risk. If you’re pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor. Use insect repellent. Get vaccinated before you travel. Consider taking anti-malarial medication.
• Rabies occurs in Vietnam, especially in the north. It’s fatal without treatment. If you’re bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help immediately.
• HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take precautions if you’re taking part in high-risk activities.
• Diphtheria is a risk. Ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date.
• Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is common. It mainly affects children and young adults. Foodborne, waterborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases include cholera, hepatitis and typhoid. Wash your hands well and often. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.

Full travel advice: Health

• Don’t use or carry illegal drugs, including marijuana. Penalties for drug offences include the death penalty and life imprisonment. Never carry parcels or luggage for others.
• Get professional legal advice before signing any contract. If you're in a business or civil dispute, officials could stop you leaving Vietnam until it’s resolved.
• It's illegal to gamble in a non-government licensed casino or possess pornography. Non-state sanctioned political or religious activity or material, or involvement with groups perceived by the Government of Vietnam to be associated with dissident groups, is also illegal. 
• It’s illegal to export antiques without a permit. Get a permit from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (Vietnamese) . It’s illegal to photograph border areas or military sites. Be careful when taking photos.
• Possessing or distributing images or objects linked to the former Republic of Vietnam, including commemorative or Vietnam War service-related items, is an offence that could attract harsh penalties.
• Vietnam recognises dual nationality in limited situations. If you're a dual national, travel on your Australian passport. You may need to do compulsory military service. Contact your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for details.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• You must have an appropriate visa before travelling to Vietnam. You can  apply online  for an eVisa for tourism or business purposes. If approved, the eVisa allows for a stay of up to 90 days and is valid for multiple entries. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam for the latest details.
• You must check your details are correct when applying for a visa. The visa details must match exactly the information on your passport's biodata page, such as your full name and date of birth. Any errors or name omissions may result in you being refused entry. You may be charged a significant fee at check-in or on arrival to correct the visa error.
• If you're travelling with prescription medication, check the value and quantity restrictions on the import and export of prescription medication with the nearest  embassy or consulate of Vietnam .

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.
• For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Hanoi , or the Australian Consulate-General in Ho Chi Minh City .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Petty crime.

Petty crime, street crime and harassment happen, especially in larger cities.

Bag slashing is common in tourist areas, at markets, on crowded trains and buses, and at supermarkets. It increases in the lead up to and during Vietnamese and Western holiday periods.

Thieves on motorcycles commit snatch-and-grab crimes against pedestrians. This happens often and sometimes results in injury.

Thieves steal valuables, such as jewellery, handbags, mobile phones and cameras.

To protect your belongings:

• take care crossing the street or walking along footpaths
• be aware of motorcycles approaching from behind as you walk on the footpath
• hold bags and backpacks in front of you or in ways that make them harder to snatch
• carry only what you need and leave other valuables in a secure location
• be prepared to surrender your valuables rather than risk being injured in a struggle

Violent crime

Aggravated theft, sexual assault and assault happen. Hot spots include:

• Ho Chi Minh City
• Sapa, especially on the train to and from Lao Cai
• Cat Ba Island, near Ha Long Bay

Reports of groping and other sexual assault are rising.

Drink spiking occurs. Foreigners have been robbed and sexually assaulted after having spiked food and drinks. This happens at late-night establishments in major cities.

To protect yourself from drink spiking:

• only drink alcohol at reputable places
• pay attention when your alcoholic drinks are being mixed
• stay with people you trust in bars and at nightclubs

If you think your drink or a friend's drink has been spiked, get urgent medical attention.

If you're a victim of a violent crime, especially sexual assault, get medical attention. There is a risk of contracting HIV/AIDS, hepatitis and other sexually transmitted diseases in Vietnam.

Although gun violence is uncommon in Vietnam, there have been isolated incidents in recent years. 

Travellers have been robbed after withdrawing money from ATMs.

Break-ins to hotels and private homes are reported. This happens even while guests are in their rooms.

To protect yourself from robbery :

• only use ATMs in banks and shopping centres
• make sure your hotel room is locked at all times, including when you're inside
• pay close attention to your personal belongings, especially in crowded areas
• be alert on overnight trains and buses and on quiet stretches of road

Report thefts straight away to the local police and hotel management.

Personal or commercial arguments sometimes lead to threats of physical violence or death.

If you're threatened with violence, report it to local police.

To avoid commercial disputes, have a clear agreement on what the expected level of service is.

Many travellers have become victims of credit and debit card, taxi and gambling scams .

Credit and debit card skimming is where card data is taken for use in fraudulent transactions. This happens throughout Vietnam.

Some Australians have lost thousands of dollars after accepting invitations to private homes from friendly locals. Beware of rigged card games and other confidence tricks organised by criminals.

Gambling may break local laws, which also apply to travellers. See Laws .

To avoid credit and debit card scams:

• keep your credit card in sight at all times
• don't share or show your PIN to others, especially when using ATMs
• check your transaction statements

At airports, use airport taxis, prearranged hotel transfer services, taxis from clearly marked taxi ranks with staff, or one reserved through a car booking app.

Check that any person holding a placard with your name on it knows where you are going.

Be careful of people who are overly friendly and invite you to their home.

If you're a victim of a gambling scam, report it to local police.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Although rare, protests sometimes happen.

Don't take photos of demonstrations, the military or the police. Authorities may not tolerate this.

Some localised violent clashes between protesters and police have resulted in casualties. The most recent incident occurred in Đắk Lắk Province in June 2023, when several police were killed in organised attacks on police stations.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

More information:

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators' safety and maintenance standards may not meet your expectations. This can include adventure activities, such as mountain climbing and boat trips.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Vietnam experiences natural disasters and severe weather , including:

• flash floods

Severe weather events can disrupt air, sea, road and rail transport, electricity and communications.

If there's a natural disaster:

• always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
• keep in regular touch with family and friends
• check the media and other local sources for information
• follow the advice of local authorities

Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Flooding and typhoons

Floods , flash floods, typhoons and severe weather are common during the rainy season, from June to November.

Flooding can lead to landslides including in built up and residential areas of towns and villages. 

Typhoons mostly affect the coastal areas of the north and central regions. Though less common, typhoons also happen in the south.

Monitor the media, and weather and flood level reports during the rainy season.

The Mekong River Commission gives information on flood levels for the Mekong River region.

If there's a flood, typhoon or severe weather:

• don't enter the affected areas without getting advice from local authorities
• check with tour operators before travelling to affected areas
• if in doubt about the safety of any location, change your travel plans. 

Large, frequent earthquakes in the region make destructive tsunamis more likely.

Be alert to warnings. A tsunami can arrive within minutes of a nearby tremor or earthquake.

To receive tsunami alerts, register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

Move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Do not wait for official warnings. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

If there's a tsunami or if a tsunami warning is current, check the US Tsunami Warning System .

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up   
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Some addictive and psychotropic medications are controlled.

If you plan to take medication, check if it's legal in Vietnam. Take enough legal medicine for your trip and always carry it in its original packaging.

If you are travelling with prescription medication, check the value and quantity restrictions on the import and export of prescription medication with the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam .

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Localised outbreaks of diphtheria can occur in Vietnam.

Seek medical advice to en sure your vaccinations are up-to-date.

• Diphtheria (HealthDirect)

Insect-borne illnesses

Zika virus  continues to be a risk. There's no vaccination for it.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends you:

discuss any travel plans with your doctor

consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

Dengue  is found, especially in the south. There's no vaccine or treatment.

Japanese encephalitis  is also found. To protect yourself, consider getting vaccinated. A vaccine is available in Australia.

Malaria is a risk in some remote mountainous areas.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Discuss your travel plans and other vaccination needs with your doctor before you travel.

Infectious diseases

Rabies is potentially fatal if you don't get vaccinated or receive quick treatment.

Rabies is found in infected dogs, monkeys, bats and other mammals.

Most reported cases are in the mountain areas of northern Vietnam. It's most commonly passed on through dog bites.

To reduce your risk of rabies, don't go near dogs and other mammals.

If you're bitten or scratched, seek medical help immediately.

HIV/AIDS is a risk.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to risk of infection.

Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is common. Sometimes more serious outbreaks happen.

Outbreaks usually peak from March to May and from September to December.

HFMD mostly affects children under the age of 10 years. Adult cases, especially young adults, are not unusual.

The illness appears as a fever, blisters and rashes on the hands, feet and buttocks.

HFMD is spread by direct contact with nose and throat discharges and faeces of infected people.

To reduce the risk of getting or passing on HFMD, pay close attention to hygiene. Wash your hands well and often.

Bird flu (avian influenza)

Human cases of avian influenza or 'bird flu' are reported in Vietnam.

Cholera and other health risks

Acute watery diarrhoea and cholera occur.  

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases occur. These include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads

Get urgent medical attention if you have a fever or diarrhoea or you suspect food poisoning.

Air pollution

There can be high levels of air pollution, up to and including hazardous levels, in major cities, especially during January to March. Pollution can increase the risk of breathing problems. People with pre-existing medical conditions, particularly heart and lung conditions, may be affected.

If you're concerned about the levels of air pollution:

• seek medical advice
• follow advice from local authorities about methods to reduce exposure
• monitor an air quality index
• reduce your exposure

World Air Quality

Drug use has been reported to cause psychotic episodes and hospitalisation.

If you use drugs in Vietnam, you face possible health and legal risks. See Local laws

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities and care varies, is generally below Australian standards, and may lack medicine and supplies.

Foreign private medical clinics are available in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. They may not meet Australian standards.

Medical facilities and care at most public hospitals are poor. This is especially true outside Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

You may need medical evacuation to a major centre, even for minor operations.

Doctors and hospitals expect payment before providing medical services, including for emergency care.

Some hospitals may talk with your travel insurance company to secure payment. Others may need up-front payment before they will start treating you.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to Bangkok or Singapore. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You may need to show a legalised birth certificate to be recognised as next of kin for medical consent purposes.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Vietnamese authorities have broad powers to implement various measures to contain COVID-19. These include movement restrictions and mandatory isolation for positive cases. These can vary from province to province. Follow the advice of local authorities.

There are strict security and investigative measures to stop drug trafficking.

Penalties for all types of drug offences, including those with small amounts of drugs, are severe. Many drug offences attract the death penalty or life in jail.

Marijuana in any form is illegal.

More than 20 Australians are serving sentences for drug offences in Vietnam. More have been arrested and are waiting for further investigation or trials.

Never carry parcels or luggage for others.

For information about carrying prescription medications into Vietnam, see Travel .

Carrying or using drugs

Marriage laws

Foreigners who want to marry a Vietnamese citizen in Vietnam must get formal approval from the Department of Justice. This must be done in the province where the Vietnamese citizen is registered.

You also need a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI) if you plan to marry in Vietnam.

Apply for a CNI through the:

• Australian Embassy in Hanoi
• Australian Consulate-General in Ho Chi Minh City

You can also apply for the CNI from DFAT in Australia.  Fees apply. The embassy or consulate of Vietnam in Australia needs to authenticate it. Only then will the Department of Justice in Vietnam recognise it.

Getting married

Business laws

Increased Australian business activity has resulted in a higher number of commercial disputes in recent years.

If you're thinking about entering into a contract, get professional legal advice.

If you're involved in a business or civil dispute, authorities could stop you from leaving Vietnam until you resolve the matter.

• Doing business
• Doing business in Vietnam
• Living or working overseas

Disputes over alleged misrepresentation of working and living conditions for Australians working in Vietnam often happen. This is especially the case for people teaching English.

Before signing an employment contract or travelling to Vietnam for work, verify the true nature of the work you're offered.

Check for unacceptable employment conditions. For example, conditions for early termination may state that you surrender your right to a return air ticket. Your potential employer may also withhold your pay.

To safeguard your stay, also:

• check the living arrangements your potential employer has offered
• make sure you have the correct visa before arriving — ask an embassy or consulate of Vietnam
• get professional legal advice before signing any contract
• get all the work permits you need

The Australian embassy or consulate-general can provide a limited range of notarial services for some documents needed for a work permit.

Never hand over your passport to your employer, even for safekeeping. Reputable businesses won't ask you to hand over your passport.

Make sure you keep a valid visa and work permit. If you don't, authorities will fine you and could detain you.

Going overseas to live or work

Penalties for serious crime, such as rape, espionage and hijacking, may include the death penalty.

It's illegal to:

• take photos at border crossings or military installations
• go too close to the border with China, Cambodia or Laos without prior written permission from the local authorities
• gamble, except in government-licensed casinos where foreign passport holders can gamble
• possess pornography
• possess non-state sanctioned political or religious material

These activities may result in arrest and imprisonment.

Taking part in unsanctioned religious activities, including online, is against the law. Any involvement with non-state sanctioned political organisations, or groups perceived by the Government of Vietnam to be associated with dissident groups is also illegal. If authorities suspect you of involvement in these activities, they could stop you from entering the country, detain or deport you. Authorities could also stop you from leaving, place you under surveillance or subject you to interrogation until an investigation has been completed.

It's illegal to export antiques without a permit. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (Vietnamese) offers advice and necessary permits.

Possessing or distributing images or objects linked to the former Republic of Vietnam, including commemorative or Vietnam War service-related items, is an offence that could attract harsh penalties. 

Embassy or consulate of Vietnam

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal. However, social and cultural attitudes towards same-sex relationships can be conservative, especially in rural areas.

Avoid public displays of affection.

Same-sex partners aren't legally protected or recognised.

Advice for LGBTI travellers

Dual citizenship

Vietnam recognises dual nationality in limited situations.

If you're a dual citizen and you enter Vietnam on a Vietnamese passport, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained. Vietnamese authorities may not tell us of your situation.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

Australian citizens must re-enter Australia on an Australian passport.

If you're a dual national, you may need to do compulsory military service in Vietnam.

Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam in Australia before you travel.

Advice for dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

To enter Vietnam, you must have either a:

• visa exemption certificate

Australian passport holders are not able to obtain visas on arrival in Vietnam.

Learn more about  visa requirements.

You can now apply for an eVisa for tourism or business purposes. It allows eligible travellers to stay up to 90 days in Vietnam if granted. The eVisa is valid for single or multiple entries.

You can complete the  visa application form  online. As there have been reports of difficulties in accessing eVisas during airport check-in, once granted, you should consider printing a hard copy of the visa approval document.

Make sure you enter your details correctly when applying for a visa. The visa details must match exactly the information on your passport's biodata page, such as your full name and date of birth details. When you're issued a visa to enter Vietnam, check that all your Vietnam visa details are correct, match the information in your passport, that your full name is listed, and that there are no spelling or other errors. Any errors or name omissions may result in you being refused entry, or you could be charged a significant fee at check-in or on arrival to correct the visa error. 

For stays longer than 90 days, please contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam.

If your visa expires or is no longer valid, you may be detained and/or fined when leaving.

The Australian Government cannot sponsor your visa application or extension.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Vietnam  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

You must register your place of residence with local police within 24 hours of arrival. Check that your hotel does this as part of the check-in process. Register at the local police station if you're staying in private accommodation.

Travellers have been scammed by private online visa services and travel agents.

Only apply for your visa through the Government of Vietnam’s official website or offices.

Vietnamese spouse or parent visas

If your spouse or parent is a Vietnamese national, you can apply for a visa exemption certificate.

Changes to visa status and visa extensions

You can't change the status of your entry visa to any other visa type in Vietnam. For example, you can't change a tourist or a spouse visa to a working visa.

Vietnam does not issue automatic visa extensions. If your visa has expired, contact the Vietnamese immigration authorities to make arrangements to exit Vietnam. Visa extensions are only possible before your visa expiry date.

To get a visa extension from the Vietnamese immigration authorities, your passport must have at least 6 months validity left at the time of application. 

This requirement is subject to change.

Check with the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam  for details.

Border measures

Travel and entry requirements may change rapidly. Contact your nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate for details on entry and exit requirements.

Other formalities

Import and export of prescription medication .

Medication  and medical equipment 

Register place of residence

All foreigners must register their place of residence with the local police within 24 hours of arrival.

The Australian embassy and consulate can't provide translation services to help with registration.

If you stay at a hotel, check that you'll be registered as part of the normal check-in process. They'll need your passport details.

Many hotels ask foreigners to leave their passport with hotel staff for registration purposes. It isn't a legal requirement for hotels to keep your passport for the time you stay there.

If you stay with family, friends or in another private residence, you need to register at the local police station. Use a translator if needed.

Local hosts need to pre-register foreign guests. If you stay in a private residence, make sure your host has followed this legal requirement.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost and stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

Keep a photocopy (or photograph) of your passport bio page and visa somewhere separately in case you lose your passport.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).

When you arrive or exit Vietnam, declare:

• foreign currency in excess of $US5,000, including cash and traveller's cheques
• more than 15 million Vietnamese dong

If you carry more currency or gold than you declared, authorities could confiscate it. They could arrest or fine you.

These requirements may be subject to change. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam for details.

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout major cities in Vietnam.

ATMs are widespread in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang.

Check with your bank to confirm if your ATM (eftpos) card will work in Vietnam.

Card skimming happens throughout Vietnam. See Safety .

You may have trouble getting replacement ATM cards.

Many Australian banks don't have local or regional branches with English-speaking staff.

The Vietnamese postal services are generally unreliable. If you need a new card, consider using an international courier service. The Australian embassy or consulate can't help you with money while you wait for a new card. It can't act as a personal mail-holding service.

Local travel

Travel is restricted:

• in some parts of the central Highlands
• around some border areas
• near military installations

Long Tan Cross site

The Vietnamese Government won't permit official Long Tan commemorations at the Long Tan Cross site in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province.

Access to the site will remain open to small groups of people for private visits without media coverage. This may change at short notice.

Visitors to the site may not:

• wear medals or uniforms
• carry banners or flags

You must behave in a solemn manner, respecting the wishes of local communities.

Landmines and explosive remnants of war

Unexploded ordinance and landmines are a danger in former battlefields, especially in central Vietnam and along the Laos border.

Mine-free roads and paths are well-marked.

If you visit former battlefields, stay on marked pathways.

Driving permit

You must have a valid Vietnamese driver's licence to drive or ride in Vietnam. This includes for motorcycles of 50cc or more.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in Australia is not recognised in Vietnam.

Authorities may fine you for driving without a valid licence.

Australian embassy, Hanoi

Road travel

You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Vietnam than in Australia.

Hazards include:

• crowded streets in major cities
• drivers ignoring road rules 
• poor vehicle and road maintenance

Traffic accidents often happen and attract large crowds.

If you're involved in an accident, you could face criminal charges. This is regardless of who's at fault. You may need to pay a large sum to the injured person or their family.

If you're not familiar with local conditions, avoid driving or riding a motorcycle.

Whether driving, riding or walking, be very careful when crossing busy streets. Traffic can appear from any direction.

Road Safety

Motorcycles

The number of travellers involved in serious motorcycle accidents is increasing.

Check your travel insurance policy covers you when travelling by motorcycle.

Always wear a helmet that meets Australian safety standards.

Only ride motorcycles if you're:

• properly licensed (Australian driver licences or International Driver Licences issued in Australia are not accepted in Vietnam; you must hold a Vietnamese driving licence to ride a motorbike 50cc or above); and
• familiar with and comfortable in local driving conditions

Be careful using taxis hailed on the street.

Major metered taxis are generally reliable. Ensure the taxi driver knows how to get to where you're going before you get in.

Check the meter is used. Leave the taxi if the driver tries to pick other passengers up.

If you book a taxi online or through an app, make sure the details of the vehicle and driver match those the company gives you.

Unless using an Australian safety standard-approved helmet, we discourage using motorcycle taxis as they provide riders with helmets that offer little to no protection against injury in the case of an accident.

Be careful of taxi scams. See Safety

Public transport

Inter-city buses have a high accident rate.

Petty theft often happens on buses. See Safety .

When travelling by rail, keep the ticket stub as you need it when leaving the train station.

Getting around

Boats, hydrofoils and ferries may not meet Australian safety standards.

Accidents on waterways happen. Vessels have sunk and people have died. This includes in Ha Long Bay.

Whenever you plan to travel by boat :

• ask tour operators about the safety record and emergency procedures
• make sure there is enough safety equipment such as life jackets on board
• if proper equipment is not available, use another provider

Piracy happens in coastal areas of Vietnam.

• Reducing the risk of piracy
• International Maritime Bureau piracy reports

You may need to show your luggage tags when leaving a Vietnamese airport. Keep your luggage receipt from your airline on you at all times.

By law, children under 14 years travelling alone on domestic flights must:

• bring a birth certificate
• have an authorisation letter between the legal guardian of the child and the airline confirming the child can travel alone

Contact the airline in advance to check what is needed for unaccompanied minors.

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Vietnam's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Travelling by air

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Emergency numbers in Vietnam are operated in Vietnamese only and may be unreliable. You may have a long wait before emergency services arrive.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Take a translator with you to report a crime to the local police. Cases reported by foreigners may be accepted at the discretion of local police.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the nearest embassy or consulate.

Australian Embassy, Hanoi

8 Dao Tan Street

Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam

Phone: (+84 24) 3774 0100

Fax: (+84 24) 3774 0111

Website: vietnam.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Australia in Vietnam

Twitter: @AusAmbVN

Australian Consulate-General, Ho Chi Minh City

20th Floor, Vincom Centre

47 Ly Tu Trong Street

Ben Nghe Ward, District 1

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Phone: (+84 28) 3521 8100

Fax: (+84 28) 3521 8101

Website: hcmc.vietnam.embassy.gov.au

Check the relevant website for details about opening hours, and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Wander-Lush

Best eSIM for Vietnam: Detailed Guide to the 6 Best Providers + Cost Comparison

If you’re an avid reader of this blog, then you’ll know that I’m all about eliminating stress and streamlining logistics so you can be free to enjoy local experiences and immerse yourself in the culture when travelling.

The ability to navigate your way around city streets confidently, order a taxi on the go, or easily get in touch with locals is hugely important to my travel philosophy .

As a frequent visitor to Vietnam and a former Hanoi expat, I understand the importance of having reliable internet access in the country. Vietnam is very progressive in this regard – 5G services are available across the country.

So the only question is: What is the best way for travellers to get online?

More from Vietnam

Discover the best city guides, itineraries, travel tips & hidden gems in my Vietnam Travel Guide.

Up until now, purchasing a plastic SIM card from a shop like the one pictured above was the only option. Thanks to new eSIM technology, travellers like us now have an alternative that can save us time, money and stress.

In this guide, I’ll show you the 6 best eSIM Vietnam options that currently exist and walk you through the entire process of buying and using an eSIM on your next visit to Vietnam.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Wait – do you even need a SIM card for Vietnam?

WIFI is ubiquitous in Vietnam and available at all hotels, restaurants and cafes in the big cities of Hanoi, Danang and Saigon. But as you move further out, access becomes limited and speeds can be painfully slow. Some homestays do not offer WIFI, and it can be tricky to find a steady connection in remote national parks and rural areas .

Even in the cities, having your own SIM can be very useful. When I lived in Hanoi and travelled around Vietnam, I used my phone every single day for tasks such as ordering taxis and motodops (motorbike taxis) and for navigating with Google Maps.

Internet access is handy for buying bus/train tickets on the go , using Google Translate, and for keeping in touch with guides and hosts via an instant messaging service.

Tip: Zalo is the most popular IM service in Vietnam, downloaded by around 80% of smartphone users.

If you want to stay connected to Instagram and Facebook, watch vlogs on YouTube or use Vietnam travel blogs such as this one to enrich your travels, then data is a worthwhile investment!

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a piece of technology that’s built into your mobile phone or iPad. It works much the same way as a regular SIM card, only it’s completely digital.

While a traditional SIM (subscriber identity module) uses a plastic card, an eSIM is remotely programmable. That means you can change your carrier and get data packages using software only. Normally an eSIM is activated by scanning a QR code and managed through an app.

ESIMs have been around since 2017, but the technology is still emerging. If you purchased your phone (or iPad) in the past 5 years, there’s a good chance it is already eSIM compatible. Read on for a full list of models.

eSIM versus traditional SIM: Quick comparison

Here are just some of the pros of using an eSIM.

Save time by not having to search for a SIM card

One of the biggest annoyances with a traditional SIM is that you have to physically go to a shop and buy a card. This takes time and energy, especially in a country where you don’t speak the language.

With an eSIM, you can get everything set up before your trip so that you can hit the ground running and get online instantly. There is no need to swap out plastic cards, which means there’s no risk of damaging or losing your home SIM.

Easy activation

The entire process of buying and activating an eSIM can be done online before you leave home. There’s no need to sign a contract or give over your personal information. Unlike traditional SIMs that need SMS validation codes and require you to configure your APN, eSIMs activate instantly.

All eSIMs have a validity period and a usage period. For some, the countdown begins as soon as you activate the eSIM, while for others, they only become active once you arrive in country.

Save money by avoiding roaming charges

If you normally use international roaming when travelling, then an eSIM could potentially save you a lot of money. For example, roaming charges on the Australian Optus network are priced at $0.02 per KB, which is significantly higher than the rates offered by eSIM companies.

ESIMs do not require roaming and when used correctly, there is no risk of incurring extra roaming charges.

Access to high-speed internet

International roaming packages are usually limited to 2G or 3G networks, which means painfully slow speeds. The same applies to public WIFI connections. Vietnam eSIMs are compatible with 4G/LTE/5G, which means fast speeds across the country.

Increased privacy & security

With an eSIM, you can avoid having to use public or shared WIFI networks which might not be secure. Paired with a VPN (I use and recommend ExpressVPN ), you can enjoy complete privacy when browsing the web or using internet banking services. Because eSIMs are totally digital, any security updates to the service itself are done automatically.

Keep your home SIM active during your trip

When using an eSIM, you don’t have to remove the plastic SIM card you normally use at home. That means you can keep your mobile number active and still use your phone for receiving 2FA codes, other SMS messages and phone calls (though this will incur extra charges from your home provider). You can keep the same number for Whatsapp and other messaging services.

An eSIM is especially handy if your phone has only one SIM card slot. My phone has two slots, but since I have an SD card in one for extra storage, I can only use one plastic SIM at a time. The eSIM is a great solution.

24/7 support in English

I know from experience that when things go wrong with a local SIM card, it can be challenging to get support. ESIM providers such as Airalo and SimOptions offer online support through web chat, email and phone – so you can reach out and get help from an English speaker whenever you need it.

The 6 best eSIMs for Vietnam

Here is a round-up of the best Vietnam eSIM plans currently on the market.

Top choice: Asia Link Regional eSIM (10 GB)

• Price: From $37
• Data: 10 GB
• Valid for: 30 days
• Network: Viettel & Mobifone
• Perks: Top-ups enabled, longest validity period, reputable provider

Valid for 14 Asian countries including Vietnam, Thailand, Laos and Malaysia , the Asia Link eSIM is my top overall choice when travelling around Vietnam or the region.

It is offered by Airalo , one of the world’s leading eSIM providers (currently Airalo has a 4.1 rating on TrustPilot). They offer 24/7 online support and have a user-friendly app.

This eSIM has the longest validity period of any service on this list – a full 30 days from the moment you connect to a supporting network. Better still, you can reload your original eSIM with 6 data boost packages ranging from 1-100 GB. This means you don’t have to repurchase a new eSIM if you run out of data, you can simply top-up instead (very few eSIMs offer this option).

Like other eSIMs on this list, the Asia Link connects to the Viettel network in Vietnam, which is considered the most reliable (this is the one I used when I lived in Hanoi ). Set up is quick, with no identity verification required, and step-by-step guidance provided through the app.

There are 5 more Asia Link eSIM options available, so you can go for a larger or smaller data package depending on your needs.

eSIM2FLY Global

• Price: From $49.90
• Valid for: 15 days
• Network: Viettel & Vietnamoble
• Perks: Top-ups enabled, get a local phone number, make calls & texts

The eSIM2FLY Global by AIS is a round-the-world eSIM that works in 120+ different countries, including most of Southeast Asia. It is the only provider on this list that has 5G support for Vietnam, which means you’ll probably be eligible for faster download and upload speeds where available.

The main point of difference with the eSIM2FLY is that it comes with a Thai phone number (the company is based in Thailand ). If you need a local number to confirm bookings or you want to give your family/friends back home an emergency contact, then this is a great choice.

This is the only eSIM on the list that can be used to make and receive calls – all you need to do is add data to your balance via the app. Receiving an SMS is free, and calls are charged at 6 baht/minute.

The AIS eSIM is automatically activated once you arrive in any of the covered countries. There are various top up options available through the app.

TripRoaming eSIM for Vietnam

• Price: From $4.71
• Data: 1-30 GB
• Valid for: 3-30 days
• Network: Viettel
• Perks: Flexible packages, hotspot enabled

TripRoaming offers greater flexibility with its eSIMs. Packages range from 1 GB of data with 3 days validity right up to 30 GB with 30 days validity. If you’re a light user, they also have a 7-day plan capped at 500 MB/day.

This eSIM is hotspot enabled, so you can tether your laptop or another device. It works in Vietnam and 7 other countries, including Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia and Singapore.

Smart Traveller eSIM

• Price: From $17.90
• Valid for: 10 days
• Perks: Affordable price, regional coverage

The Smart Traveller eSIM is ideal if you’re planning a short trip to Vietnam of 10 days or less.

The eSIM activates immediately, and there are no special APN settings required. It has a one-year validity period, meaning you can buy it ahead of time.

This eSIM cannot be topped up, so if you use all the data, you will need to buy a new one (easy enough to do on the website). It does not include calls or SMS, but of course you can use Whatsapp, Zalo or another service for online communication.

The Smart Traveller eSIM works in 27 countries. You can use the same eSIM for other destinations in the region including Cambodia (via Metfone network), Laos (via Lao Telecom network), Malaysia (via Digi network), and Singapore (via StarHub network).

Discover Global eSIM (10 GB)

• Price: From $59
• Valid for: 60 days
• Network: Vietnamobile
• Perks: Global coverage, top-ups enabled

Also offered by Airalo, the Discover Global eSIM is worth considering if you’re planning an extended trip. With this eSIM you can get online in 87 countries (including Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand).

Like the Asia Link, it has several price points ranging from just $9 for 7 days. The biggest package is valid for 180 days and top-up enabled, making it a good investment for long-term travellers covering not just Asia but Europe, South America and/or the Pacific.

You can recharge using the Airalo app, with 1-20 GB data top-up packages available at competitive prices.

The only pitfall to the Discover Global is that it uses the Vietnamobile 3G network in Vietnam, which isn’t necessarily the fastest or the most dependable.

Drimsim pay-as-you-go eSIM

• Price: €0.03/MB (+ €10 for the eSIM)
• Data: No limit
• Valid for: One year
• Perks: Only pay for what you use, global coverage, hotspot enabled

Drimsim eSIM is a bit different to the other services on this list. Instead of offering discrete data packages for different countries or regions, it works like a universal roaming SIM, only charging you for the data you use.

Drimsim works in virtually every country around the world (190 in total, including Vietnam and all of Southeast Asia). The eSIM has one year validity and won’t expire. It activates immediately, and is hotspot enabled.

There is an up-front cost of €10, but after that, there are no monthly fees. Data is charged at competitive rates – in Vietnam, it’s €0.03/MB or €30 per GB.

Pay-as-you go offers greater flexibility, but you do have to be more mindful of your data usage. Drimsim has a sophisticated app you can use to monitor exactly how much data you’ve gone through. You can also use the app to make calls or send SMS messages internally for lower rates.

How to activate an eSIM

Activating an eSIM is fairly straightforward. You do need an internet connection to complete the process, so it’s a good idea to do it either before you leave home or when you arrive at your first hotel.

Once you purchase your desired plan, you will receive an email containing a QR code. Use your mobile phone to scan the code. This will open up the app. From there, follow the instructions and the eSIM should automatically connect to the carrier.

Tip: If you only have one device, ask a friend to take a photo of the QR code so that you can scan it with your own phone.

Remember to only finish the activation when you are ready to start using the eSIM. For most providers, the clock starts on the validity period as soon as the eSIM is installed.

If you have more than one mobile phone, be sure to install the eSIM on the right device the first time. It’s not easy to transfer an eSIM to a different phone, and the service cannot be shared.

When you arrive in Vietnam, make sure your phone is connected to Viettel (depending on the provider, you might have to manually select the network).

How much data do you need for Vietnam?

Most eSIM plans for Vietnam come with a standard 6 GB of data. Here’s a rough idea of what you can do with 6 GB:

• General internet browsing: 75-100 hours (approx. 3,500 web pages)
• Searching Google Maps: 15,000 locations
• Instant messaging/emails: 2 million (no attachments)
• Streaming YouTube: 5-10 hours (SD)
• Watching Netflix: 6 hours (SD)
• Video call on FaceTime: 33 hours
• Voice call on Skype: 180 hours

[ Source 1 | Source 2 ]

For most travellers, 6 GB will be sufficient for 10-15 days of travel.

Remember that the eSIM2FLY Global has a top up option if you think you’ll need more data, while the TripRoaming eSIM has larger plans (up to 30 GB) for data-heavy users.

My top choice for Vietnam, the Asia Link Regional eSIM , comes with 10 GB for 30 days with top-ups available. This should be plenty of data to cover you for a longer trip of two weeks or more.

Tips for using an eSIM in Vietnam

Make sure your device is esim compatible.

Most (but not all) mobile phones made since 2019 are eSIM compatible. This includes iPhone models 11 through 14, iPads, and many Samsung, Google Pixel and Huawei models.

See a full list of compatible devices here on SimOptions .

Make sure your mobile phone is unlocked

Just like a plastic SIM, an eSIM won’t work on a locked phone. Before you travel, make sure your phone is not locked to your home carrier. If it is, you might need to make a call or visit a store to get it unlocked.

Download Google Maps for offline use

If you’re anything like me, Google Maps will be your most-used app when travelling. A great tip is to download maps for offline use. This way you can still use street maps to navigate and explore, but the app won’t eat up your data.

Before you leave home, select the geographic radius you want to access and download the data to your device. This will save the street names, public transport routes and some data about landmarks and venues. For full instructions, see this guide .

Update your apps then disable auto updates

Before your trip starts, use your home WIFI to update all your apps – this will ensure things run smoothly while you’re away. Turn off auto updates (or set them to WIFI-only) to prevent heavy data usage when you’re connected to 4G.

Have you used an eSIM in Vietnam? What was your experience? Do you have any additional tips to share with other travellers or feedback on your favourite service? Please leave your trip notes in the comments below!

Vietnam essentials

Here are the booking sites and services I personally use whenever I travel to Vietnam .

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Vietnam using Skyscanner .

VIETNAM VISA: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Vietnam and apply for an expedited e-visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation if required.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Pre-book a private hotel transfer from Hanoi Airport or Ho Chi Minh City Airport via Get Your Guide.

SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Vietnam online before you go. My top choice is the Asia Link Regional eSIM by Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Vietnam on Agoda or book a Vietnam hostel .

TRAIN TICKETS: Reserve your Vietnam Rail tickets for the train to Sapa , Da Nang, Hue or Saigon via 12GoAsia.

BUS TICKETS: Buy your domestic bus or plane tickets in advance using 12GoAsia or Bookaway .

FOODIE EXPERIENCES: Find the best cooking classes and foodie experiences in Vietnam on Cookly. Here are my top 15 Vietnam food experiences to help you decide.

DAY TOURS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Vietnam on Get Your Guide. Check out my top 10 best Vietnam day trips for more inspiration.

HALONG BAY: Consult my comprehensive Halong Bay guide to find the best cruises & tours.

VIETNAM GUIDEBOOK: Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Vietnam .

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23 things to know before visiting Vietnam

Aug 7, 2023 • 10 min read

Read on for all the key things to know before you visit Vietnam © Elizaveta Galitckaia / Shutterstock

Adventures abound in Vietnam . You can climb the heights and scuba dive the lows, immerse yourself in culture or just kick back on the sand, confident in the knowledge that a fantastic meal is waiting for you at the end of the day. But there are things to know before you go, to avoid pitfalls in paradise. These are our top tips. 

1. Pack for the climate

Perhaps the most important consideration when planning a trip to Vietnam is the weather. The south of the country sits firmly in the humid tropics, but the climate becomes increasingly temperate as you head north, and the highlands around Sapa can be downright chilly in winter. If you plan to visit both halves of the country, bring some clothes for the cooler highlands as well as the steamy Mekong Delta . 

2. Be rain ready

Vietnam is soaked by the southwest monsoon from May to September and the northeast monsoon from October to April, so check the weather in the areas you plan to visit. Trekking in the northwest and boat trips in Halong Bay , for example, can be a soggy experience in July and August, but this is a great – if popular – time to bask on the central beaches. Even in the rainy season, it doesn’t rain all day, every day, so bring a raincoat or umbrella and make the best of the smaller crowds and lower prices. 

3. Investigate the visa options

There are numerous ways to arrange the paperwork for a visit to Vietnam, some cheaper and quicker than others. You may not need a visa at all for a short trip, and electronic visas and visas on arrival are available for many nationalities – much less hassle than going to the embassy in person. Read up on the visa requirements before you book your flights, to avoid paying more than you need to, or getting held up by red tape. 

4. Get your jabs

As with anywhere in the tropics, there are tropical illnesses to be aware of in Vietnam. See your doctor at least a month before you travel to get up to date with vaccinations, and arrange anti-malarial medication if you plan to visit rural areas. 

Mosquitoes can also carry dengue fever, so bring repellent. On arrival, avoid drinking tap water and use antibacterial hand gel to reduce the risk of stomach bugs; a medical face mask can reduce the risk of respiratory infections and help with pollution in big cities.  

5. Book ahead for Tet and the holiday peak 

Booking transport, accommodation and tours ahead of time is not essential, but it’s a good way to avoid disappointment if you come at a busy time , such as July and August on the central coast. If you plan to be in Vietnam during the Tet (Lunar New Year) festival in late January or early February, having transport and accommodation in place before you arrive is a very sensible precaution. 

There is a caveat, however – book directly with operators where possible. If you go through an agency, you’ll pay more, and some travelers have reported not getting the services and standards they were expecting when booking through third parties. 

6. Factor sleeper buses and trains into your itinerary

Domestic flights in Vietnam are inexpensive but there are less polluting alternatives. When planning long-distance travel , don’t overlook the country’s overnight trains and buses – you’ll save the cost of a night’s accommodation and cover big distances, without eating into your sightseeing time. Reserve a fully horizontal berth for a more comfortable night’s sleep – both buses and trains have them. The booking site 12Go Asia is a good place to start investigating the options. 

7. Give Vietnam the time it deserves

Vietnam measures 1650km (1025 miles) from the Chinese border in the north to the Mekong Delta in the south, so you’ll need plenty of time to get from A to B. Road and rail transport can be slow, and there are lots of places where you’ll want to stop as you travel between the major hubs. If you only have a short time, focus your itinerary on a small area – Hanoi and around, say, or Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and the Delta. 

8. Respect religious spaces 

When visiting Buddhist, Hindu, Confucian and Taoist temples, churches and other religious buildings, dress respectfully – it’s best to cover your legs and upper arms, and you may need to take off your shoes and hat to enter. Never touch anyone on the head, and avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards another person or any Buddhist statues – both signs of disrespect in Buddhist culture. 

9. Don’t lose face 

As in many other parts of Asia, Vietnamese culture places considerable emphasis on "saving face" – in other words, avoiding situations that might cause individual or collective loss of dignity and respect. Public outbursts and arguments can cause everyone involved to lose face, so keep a sense of perspective, and try not to get angry when confronted by inconveniences as you travel. 

10. Do right with your chopsticks 

There are several taboos associated with using chopsticks. Leaving your sticks sticking upright in a bowl of food is considered unlucky, as it resembles offerings of incense sticks made for the dead. Using chopsticks of uneven length is also frowned on, as is tapping your bowl with your sticks (associated with beggars requesting alms). If you eat in a group, use clean chopsticks (or the reverse ends of your own chopsticks) to pass food to others.

11. Eat like a local

Food is practically a religion in Vietnam, but locals focus their energy on the evening meal, where multiple dishes are shared between diners, with the whole family getting involved. Rather than ordering a single main course, choose a spread of dishes for the table and sample a rich mix of flavors and textures. If you need a boost between meals, street food snacks can be found everywhere, or just grab a nutritious sinh tố  (fruit shake) or a cup of local drip-brewed ca phe (coffee).  

12. Don’t go overboard with displays of affection

Public displays of affection are not a big part of Vietnamese culture, for couples of all orientations. Kissing, hugging and even holding hands in public can raise eyebrows, so tone down the romantic gestures while you’re in the country. On the plus side,  despite lingering legal inequality, LGBTIQ+ couples generally face few problems in Vietnam, and Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) both have lively scenes. 

13. Be a respectful photographer

Always ask before taking photographs of people, particularly in minority villages. Many people find it intrusive, and by asking first, you’ll know if people are comfortable being included in your travel photos. In tribal areas, some villagers ask for payment for photos, which is fair enough... how would you feel if strangers kept sticking a long lens into your front porch? 

14. Don’t get dragged into Vietnamese politics

Another time to think twice before pulling out your camera is during public demonstrations and political rallies. Critics of the government can face harsh punishments – demonstrations in 2018 against laws allowing the authorities to monitor online communications led to over 100 arrests. Play it safe – steer clear of political gatherings and avoid conversations about politics with local people. 

15. Be a fair bargainer

Haggling is a fact of life in Vietnam, particularly at markets and souvenir shops, and you may pay over the odds if you accept the first price suggested. However, bargaining should never be a confrontational process – treat it as a game and counter the starting price with a lower counter offer, and see how the seller responds. With a bit of back and forth, you should reach a mutually acceptable price – and if you don’t, you can always decline politely and try another vendor. There’s little point haggling over tiny sums of money – if you pay 5000 dong (US$0.20) over the going rate, consider that you can probably afford it.

16. Know your loos

Western-style sit-down toilets are increasingly common in Vietnam, but you’ll often have to pay to use public loos, and paper is rarely provided. Carry your own, or use the hose or water jug provided. Bring antibacterial hand gel or soap; many bathrooms only provide running water.  

17. Don’t let touts take you for a ride 

Commission-seeking middle men (and middle women) pop up almost anywhere tourists gather, and Vietnam has its share. Be wary of touts who encourage visitors to use certain tour agencies, hotels, shops and transport companies in touristy parts of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An. If you use their services, you’ll pay more to cover their fee.

18. Avoid the sex tourism industry

Sex tourism is an unwelcome legacy of the American War, but it’s usually easy to spot – and avoid – places where the sex trade takes place. Be wary of bars, karaoke lounges and massage parlors with scantily clad staff and lots of pink or red neon. Note that some hotels refuse to allow foreign men to share rooms with Vietnamese women – which can lead to headaches for genuine couples with an Asian partner. 

19. Give drugs a pass

Illegal drugs aren’t hard to find on the traveler circuit in Vietnam, but the penalties, if you’re caught by the police, can be severe – even for possession of small amounts. Many travelers have ended up in Vietnamese jails for drug offenses, and the death penalty can be applied in drug cases. If you are inclined to toke while you travel, it’s only a short hop to Thailand , where the consumption of marijuana in food and drinks has been decriminalized for now.  

20. Shop responsibly 

Vietnam has some wonderful crafts and art forms that make for great souvenirs, but stick to modern pieces; it’s illegal to take antiques out of the country. Also be watchful for souvenirs made from animal parts, such as shell, horn, bone, teeth and feathers. Such items are usually taken from wild animals, and you could fall foul of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) . 

21. Be smart about crime, not anxious

Opportunistic crime can occasionally be a problem, particularly in crowded cities where pickpockets and bag-snatchers on motorcycles take advantage of the unwary, but this isn’t a problem unique to Vietnam. Activate your big city precautions, and watch your belongings on busy public transport or in bars and cafes (using a phone or laptop at an outside table is unwise). Handbags with a single strap are a popular target for ride-by bag snatchers – a daypack or messenger bag is a better option.  

22. Be wary of American War ordnance

Horrifying volumes of munitions were dropped over Vietnam during the American War, and unexploded ordnance continues to kill and maim people every year. Well-traveled areas are usually safe, but be cautious about stepping off roads and paths in rural areas. Don’t climb into bomb craters and never touch old explosive devices – they can remain deadly for decades. 

23. Be typhoon smart

Vietnam is hit by periodic typhoons between May and November, with the biggest risk of storms from August to September. If you travel during the typhoon season, monitor local weather reports, and head inland from the coast if a direct hit by a big storm is predicted. In the event of flooding, contact your embassy or consulate and follow advice from the local authorities. 

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TRAVEL to VIETNAM – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Edition)

Everything you need to know about travel to Vietnam in our comprehensive 2024 Vietnam travel guide.

We get it. You’re wondering what the absolute best destination to travel in Southeast Asia is.

You’ve spent hours researching.

Talked to friends.

Scoured the internet for blogs.

Watched YouTube videos.

And you’ve finally realised something.

Without a doubt, Vietnam is the place for you.

And trust us, as a couple that have travelled the world for over a decade, we think you’ve made the right decision.

There’s a reason Vietnam is our all-time favourite country…

From the tropical coral reefs of Nha Trang to the northern mountains of Sa Pa, travel to Vietnam is one of the most adventurous yet culturally empowering experiences you can have.

One moment you will find yourself haggling for  banh mi  deep within Saigon and later that day you could be watching a breathtaking sunset from the Mekong Delta.

Vietnam is more than a country. It’s an experience.

You’ll find yourself immersed among street food vendors cooking up exotic cuisines such as  pho  along streets with stores selling suits and ties.

Or you’ll be cruising the waters of Halong Bay while monkeys jump from island to island.

Or you might find yourself trekking to the highest peak in Vietnam, Fansipan soaring to over 3,100 metres!

Not into adventure activities? Homestays are the perfect way to spend your day as the monsoon rains fall across the endless snaking rivers of the Mekong.

Vietnamese hospitality is unrivalled and is something that you should experience once in your life, so what are you waiting for? Say good morning Vietnam! And go get lost!

So we’ve convinced you to travel to Vietnam? Awesome!

Now check out the basic information about the country in our Vietnam travel guide.

25 BEST Things to Do in Hue, Vietnam (2024 Edition)

The perfect vietnam itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 weeks, canyoning in dalat – what it is really like, travelling in vietnam: at a glance.

Here are the basics about travel to Vietnam.

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Da Nang, Hue

Vietnamese Dong (see  current exchange rate ). 1USD approximately = 23,000 dong. 1 beer = 30,000 dong ($1.30USD)

ENTRY / VISA:

Travellers from most countries in the world are required to have visas. In most cases these can be obtained upon arrival for either 3 or 6 months. For information about your specific visa requirements click  here.

Vietnam is fairly safe for travellers. Petty theft tends to be the biggest concern and always be on the lookout for taxi scams. Also of concern are minor auto/motorbike accidents. This is one place it’s great to have travel insurance when visiting.

ELECTRICITY:

220 Volt at 50Hz. Power plugs – Type A: 2 vertical pins, Type C: 2 round pins, Type F (also known as Schuko plug): 2 round pins (Be sure to get your  universal travel adapter  before you leave)

TRANSPORTATION:

Intercity travel is possible by plane, train and bus. Within cities, towns and villages you can expect to get around on bicycle rickshaws, motorbike taxes, taxis and bus.

Don’t Forget to Pack the Most Important Thing: Travel Insurance !

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN VIETNAM

With so much to see and do in Vietnam, it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Vietnam you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Take the Overnight Train from Hanoi to Sapa

Said to be one of the most eye-opening train rides in the world, as you pass through lush forests, rice paddy fields on your way to the Vietnamese – Chinese border.

Book your  train ticket here .

Hike Through the Rice Terraces of Sapa

Explore the area with the local hill tribes. Stay with them during your trek. And enjoy the beautiful terraced countryside for which Sapa is known.

Here’s our full post about  trekking in Sapa .

Cruise the Mekong Delta

Probably one of the ‘must do’s of Vietnam.’ The Mekong Delta is full of hidden gems including floating markets, friendly locals and late afternoon storms.

Book a multiday  tour of the Mekong Delta

Go Caving in Phong Nha

Caves there can fit a 747 plane in it. They are massive and spectacular. This is an adventure you will never forget.

Book your  Phong Nha cave tour

Ride a Motorcycle

Yes, that’s right! Hiring a motorcycle or scooter is a must. But maybe do it out on the country roads. Opt for the famous ride to the mountain village of Dalat, or pretty much anywhere throughout the country.

Read about how to ride through the famous  Hai Van Pass

Other Things to do in Vietnam

Learn to cook Vietnamese food . Eating delicious Vietnamese food is one thing. Eating it after you’ve  learned to prepare it  is another!

Scuba dive  in Nha Trang. You may not think of Vietnam as a big scuba location, but there is  some great diving  to be had in Nha Trang.

Go canyoning  in Dalat. Rappel, slide, jump and  climb your way through canyons  in this gorgeous place!

Explore the Marble Mountains  in Da Nang.  These beautiful mountains  have been mined for marble for years and have incredible views and temples to visit along the way.

Sandboard down the sand dunes  in Mui Ne. It’s like snowboarding, but down massive sand dunes! Enjoy this rush!

Visit the Giants Causeway  in Ghan Da Dia. Half the world away from the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, be amazed at  this unique geologic structure .

Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels  outside of Ho Chi Minh City. No trip to HCMC is complete without  touring these historic tunnels  that were used during the war.

Conquer the Hoi An Pass on a motorbike . This is known as one of the most beautiful sections of highway in the world. Enjoy!

Explore the world’s biggest cave . We have a special connection with  Hang Son Doong  as it is where we were engaged. Make your own special moment too!

Climb the highest mountain in Indochina  in Sapa. Fansipan is over 3,000m above sea level and  offers incredible views  along the way to the top!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE  OTHER AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN   VIETNAM

READ MORE...

A First-Timer’s Guide to Trekking in Sapa

The 11 Best Things to Do in Da Nang, Vietnam (2024 Guide)

33 BEST Things to Do in Vietnam (Epic 2024 Guide)

10 BEST Things to Do in Ninh Binh, Vietnam (2024 Guide)

Scuba Diving In Nha Trang – Is It Worth It?

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Vietnam. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay. 

When slurping a bowl of pho in a local market or exploring an ancient temple, it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine in Ho Chi Minh City.

A collection of over 3,000 limestone islands providing endless kayaking opportunities. Take the time to relax aboard a boat or venture to Cat Ba National Park for mystical waterfalls!

Book your  tour of Halong Bay

The capital of Vietnam is also one of the most ancient capitals in the world. The history of Hanoi is rich, devastating and full of legends. This mystical city is also known for its cuisine, silk, buzzing nightlife as well as cultural diversity.

Plan your 3-day  Hanoi itinerary

My Son Temple

Ancient temples dating back 1,000 years give a culture understanding into Vietnam’s past all while showing the scars of the war.

Book an early morning  tour of My Son

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Vietnam, reference our following city travel guides: 

Ho Chi Minh City:

*  Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary *  Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City

*  Hanoi Itinerary * Day Trips From Hanoi

Dalat Hoi An

Da Nang Hue Ninh Binh

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE OTHER AWESOME PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM. 

BEST VIETNAM TRAVEL ITINERARY

We’ve put together a few Vietnam itineraries that are sure to leave you wanting for nothing at the end of your visit. 

There are so many amazing things to do in Vietnam that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming. 

Even though the country is one united nation, you can think of it geographically as being divided into a northern and southern region.

So depending on how much time you have, you may want to explore the northern region, southern region or the entire country.

Of course, no one-size-fits-all plan will suffice. But if we were to head back to Vietnam these are the top places and things that we would want to do! 

1-Week Vietnam Travel Itinerary Highlights

Most people spend at least a month went hey travel to Vietnam. But if you had just one week, or were willing to split a few weeks between the northern and southern regions, this is how we’d spend our time! 

Northern Vietnam

• Fly into Hanoi
• 2 nights – Hanoi
• 2 nights –  Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay
• 2 nights  – Sapa
• Alternative to Sapa  –  2 night in Hue
• Fly out of Hanoi

Central Vietnam

• Fly into Hanoi or HCMC. Get a local flight down to Dong Hoi
• 3 nights  – Phong Nha
• 2 nights  – Hue
• 2-3  nights  – Hoi An
• Fly out of Da Nang to either Hanoi or HCMC to leave

South Vietnam

• Fly into Ho Chi Minh City
• 2 nights  – Ho Chi Minh City
• 2 nights –  Mekong Delta
• 2 nights –  Dalat
• 1 night –  Mui Ne
• Fly out of Ho Chi Minh City

READ MORE: Check out this post for more details on our  Vietnam travel itinerary . 

VIETNAM TRIP PLANNING

Best time to visit vietnam.

The best time to travel to Vietnam really depends on what you are looking for in terms of weather, scenery and budget.

Peak season occurs from mid-December through to February. But expect prices to double during this time. The low season is perfect for those on a budget.

• Low Season –  April to June, September to November
• Shoulder Season –  December to March
• High Season –  July & August

Northern Vietnam  –  The best months to travel Northern Vietnam are April to May or September to October. There are mostly sunny days and the rain has stopped.

The weather gets really cold from December to March and is not suited for hiking or sailing a junk boat in Halong Bay that time of year.

Central Vietnam –  The best months for travel to Central Vietnam are January to June. There are heavy rains in October and November and the really hot months are from May to August.

Southern Vietnam  –  The best months to explore Southern Vietnam are January to April where conditions are beautiful.

You really can travel the south at any time of the year. Just note that from May to November there are afternoon downpours.

VIETNAM TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDELINE

Vietnam is a cheap country to travel if you want it to be, this all depends on what your budget is like. Our advice is always over-budget when making plans, and if you come home with money, it can go towards your next trip. All prices below are in USD per day.

Budgeting Tips

To make your money go further here are a few tips: 

• Eat street food as often as possible. You can usually fill up for $1-2USD.
• Travel in groups when possible. Staying in hostels will lead to making friends. And with friends, you can split transportation costs and barter on other expenses.
• Negotiate taxi fares before taking the ride. Vietnamese taxi drivers are notorious for flexible fares that tend to fall int heir favor. Don’t be afraid of a little negotiation.
• Drink  bia hoi . Sure it’s not the more delightful beer. But it is shipped in fresh each day, it’s cheap and it’s what the local drink.
• Take in the sights for free. Do a little research and walk the streets on your own. You’ll also find there are a number of free tours and other opportunities if you ask around.
• Sleep on overnight busses for longer trips. Combine the transportation and accommodation line items of your budget and save a few dollars.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Note: Budgets shown as Single Traveller / Couples per day. 

Budget Traveller ($35 Single / $50 Couples)

If you are on a backpacker budget and planning on staying in dorm rooms, getting street food, drinking a few nights of the week, I would budget for about $35 a day.

A single hostel bed can be $5-$8 per person. A budget basic private room is $15-$20. A street food meal can be $1-$2. A bottle of beer is about $1- $1.50 and a  bia hoi  is $0.20 per cup. This is not the nicest beer. But it is passable and you get to make new friends when drinking it.

Walking or taking public transport will keep your budget down. There are many free things to do, you just need to think outside the box.

Mid-Range Traveller ($100 Single / $120 Couple)

If you have a little more cash in your budget your travels in Vietnam will become a lot more comfortable.

A nicer hotel is definitely affordable.

There are restaurants where you will pay more than the street food price. But the food is definitely of nicer quality (most of the time). The local beer can get a little too much sometimes so you will be able to enjoy an international beer or wine.

For the attractions you are most interested in, get a guide and learn more about the history of the country. You’ll be able to commit much more of your budget to do things rather than cutting corners just to stay alive.

Luxury Traveller ($90+ Single / $120+ Couple)

You don’t have to have that much more to enjoy a luxury trip to Vietnam. With a few more dollars in your budget, a nicer hotel is definitely affordable. Eat and drink anything you would like at virtually any restaurant.

You can hire transportation without having to haggle. And you can pretty much do any tour you would like to do when visiting any part of Vietnam.

GETTING TO AND AROUND VIETNAM

Entry requirements.

Most travellers are required to have visas when travelling to Vietnam, which can typically be arranged upon arrival. You are typically allowed to stay for 3 – 6 months, depending on nationality.

For information about your specific visa requirements click  here

Additionally, Vietnam has introduced an electronic visa (e-visa), which costs $25 USD and is granted for single entry visits for up to 30 days.

You no longer will have to apply through an agent to get an invitation letter or queue at the airport immigration for hours waiting to receive your visa upon arrival.

Apply in advance  here .

Once you are approved, all you need to do is print the visa out and present it on entry to Vietnam. Don’t lose this e- visa print out as you will need this during your travels in Vietnam.

Hotels will ask for it on check-in at the accommodation and travel agents may ask for it if you are booking flights.

Also, print out your  travel insurance  as well. Immigration will ask for this also as they want to know you are covered if you fall ill or get injured during your stay.

Getting to Vietnam

There are a number of different ways to travel to Vietnam, depending on where you are coming from and how you like to get around with transport.

There are a lot of different airlines that fly to Vietnam from all over the world. There are two major international airports in Vietnam: Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City in the south and Noi Bai Airpot (HAN) in Hanoi in the north.

Direct flights to Vietnam from Australia, Europe and North America are still limited, but it is improving. You will most likely have to book a flight with a stopover in either Hong Kong, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul or Singapore.

There are many domestic airports scattered among the country. Vietnam Airlines is Vietnam’s national carrier. We have flown with them several times and they are amazing.

You can cross into Vietnam by train from China, all the way from Beijing to Ping Xian. This is the Dong Dang Crossing which is 160km from Hanoi.

After you have crossed the border hop on a train to Hanoi. Don’t buy the direct ticket from Beijing to Hanoi. It works out cheaper to buy your ticket from Beijing to Ping Xian then cross the border and purchase another ticket from Dong Dang to Hanoi.

If you do the train trip from Beijing through to Hanoi, it will take 36 hours so it is best to book a sleeper. Make sure you have your visa organised before getting to the border.

You can bring your own food and drinks for the train or purchase them from the cafeteria on board. There are squat toilets on board and areas to store your luggage.

You can get to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City through either the Cambodia, Laos or China borders. There is a route from Vientiane (Laos) to Hanoi, and one from Siem Reap or Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City.

Most travel agents in Vientiane, Siem Reap or Phnom Penh will sell the tickets or at your accommodation. You can also get a minivan from Guangzhou through to Hanoi.

Make sure you have your visa ready. The border crossings by land may not be set up as well as others.

If you want to book any of your bus trips online rather than trying to deal with travel agencies in the country, you can do so on the popular website  Bookaway .

Getting Around Vietnam

Getting around Vietnam is surprisingly easy. Public transport goes everywhere, and there are plenty of moto-taxis that are happy to take you to the places that public transport won’t reach.

Travelling by Air

The fastest way to get around the country, of course, is by air. There are many domestic airports all over the country and you can fly in from major cities.

You can get cheap flights within the country through VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines. For the best deals head directly on the airline’s website.

Travelling by Taxi, Tuk Tuk Or Mototaxi

When you are in the cities and town catching a taxi, tuk-tuk or moto-taxi can be the best way to get around. For taxi companies, look for the biggest and most reputable companies as you can be ripped off.

For the tuk-tuks, ask your accommodation the average price to your destination so you can agree on a price with the driver.

We recommend Uber and Grab (car or motorbike) which you can use an app and get the price.

Travelling by Bus

It is possible and advisable to travel by bus throughout Vietnam. Busses inside of cities can be complicated and should be a last resort.

However, when travelling long distances in Vietnam busses are a great option. This is especially true if you take night busses and sleep during the ride.

Travelling by Motorbike

We think travelling by motorbike is the best way to see Vietnam if you have the time. Buy your own motorbike and ride the length of the country. Or you can choose one area and explore Northern Vietnam or South Vietnam.

Here’s our post to help guide you on  how to buy a motorbike in Vietnam .

Travelling by Train

Taking the train is a great way to get around the country. They are great for overnight journeys as the trains have bed cabins.

In Vietnam, there are many places with roadwork that can last for years. So trains can be the best way to go.

APPS AND TECHNOLOGY

We know you’ll absolutely love travelling in Vietnam. But technology has made it easier, more affordable and safer to travel than ever.

Here are a few apps we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

Grab  – Use this app to catch a ride from any metro area in Vietnam.

XE Currency  – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around. 

Express VPN  – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in [Country]. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel. 

iTranslate  – Even if you don’t know more than a handful of Vietnamese words, iTranslate will help you communicate as you travel in Vietnam. 

WiFi Finder  – With this app, you no longer have to guess whether the next place on your itinerary has WiFi or scramble across town looking for hot spots.

BEST THINGS TO EAT IN VIETNAM

When you travel to a foreign country one of the new and most exciting things you will experience is the food. There are so many amazing food choices in Vietnam, and Vietnamese food is delicious.

Here are a few of our favourites.

Goi Cuon:  This is a rice paper packed with greens, coriander and various combinations of minced or shredded pork, shrimp or crab. It will be served with a sweet and sour sauce or a delicious homemade peanut sauce.

Sometimes to make the experience even better, you get to hand roll them yourself. This was our favourite dish.

Banh Mi:  With this one, it will be different in every corner of Vietnam. This is a baguette sandwich that is filled with meat, greens, pata, pickled vegetables, soy sauce, cilantro and sometimes an omelet.

The meat filling will be roasted pork belly, grilled pork loin, barbecue pork, boiled chicken, or a fried egg.

Pho (pronounced ‘fur’):  This flat rice noodle soup is either light beef or chicken broth flavoured with coriander and ginger with spring onions and bits of meat (chicken, pork or beef).

It is a dish you can have any time of the day and is delicious, but it can be hit and miss in some places. If you have an average one, please do try it again. We ate pho a lot for breakfast and never got sick of it.

Bun Cha:  This is a Hanoi specialty and it is deliciously addictive. Bun Cha is served with grilled fatty pork over a plate of white rice noodles. It will be served with a sauce.

It will all be served separately and you combined everything together. You can ask for some little fried spring rolls on top too. It is so delicious!

Coa Lau:  Hoi An is the best (and only authentic) place to try this one. as the noodles are made using water from a special well in town.

It is chewy rice flour noodles with Chinese barbecue pork, bean sprouts, croutons and fresh herbs in a delicious pork-based gravy.

PLACES TO STAY IN VIETNAM

There are accommodation options for all budgets in Vietnam. You can stay in a shared dorm for $5 USD per night, or a luxury hotel for over $300 USD.

The accommodation standards can vary in each destination.

For example, we got a really nice hotel in the middle of nowhere when we were on our bike for $12 a night. But we would not find a place like this in Hanoi, Hoi An, HCMC or Hue for less than $25.

NOTE –  In Vietnam, the accommodation will keep your passport for the duration of your stay. This is to do with the government. Officials will randomly come around and check hotels and hostels.

If they do not have the ID or passport of every person staying there, the accommodation will be fined. The accommodation will keep your passport in a safe. If you are unsure just ask, “do you lock my passport up?”

Types of Accommodations

Vietnam is wildly popular among backpackers. Because the costs are generally incredibly low, budget travellers flock to the country.

This means that there are lots of great hostel options when looking for accommodations in Vietnam.

Whether you are busy spending all your time exploring and are just looking for a cheap place to crash for the night or want to make friends along the way, you will find most of what you are looking for in a variety of hostels throughout Vietnam.

Because costs are generally lower in Vietnam than in most parts of the world your quality of life can go up quite a bit when you travel to Vietnam.

One way you can upgrade your travel experience is by booking rooms in hotels instead of beds in hostels. For a few dollars more you’ll get vastly more space and privacy.

In some towns and villages, hotels are your only option.

But generally, these are very reasonably priced. You can expect to spend USD$20-30 for a decent hotel room in most cities, towns and villages across Vietnam.

Another good option in recent years is AirBnB, and there are more and more amazing places popping up to stay in Vietnam for very affordable prices every day.

As is typical in many destinations where Airbnb accommodations are available, you’ll likely find great value and a little more personal space with an Airbnb stay. 

If you’re looking for an awesome place to stay, we personally love using Airbnb. If you’ve never used the platform before,  sign up using this link to get USD$35 off your first booking .

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Vietnam

We travelled from the south to the north and stayed in many different places. Here are a few accommodation options we highly recommend.

VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS

The Vietnamese people are friendly, welcoming and hospitable towards travellers. It is a great destination to travel to in Southeast Asia.

The people are very respectful and would like the same back from you. Here are a few things that you should know before going to Vietnam.

GENERAL VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS 

While we have  many basic travel tips  we suggest you use when travelling to Vietnam, there are also plenty of Vietnam-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be. 

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Vietnam: 

Please show respect to their religious beliefs and their cultures . You are travelling to someone else’s country. They have different religious beliefs and cultures in your home. Please respect them.

Watch your belongings.  Vietnam is a safe country but unfortunately, there still is petty theft. Whether you are at a restaurant or on a bus always watch your belongings.

Beware of the counterfeit tour agencies . Unfortunately, there are plenty of these around, especially in the main tourist areas. Book through the main owner or operator or any of  these tours that we recommend .

Do not drink the tap water.  The locals don’t even drink the water. There is bottled water available everywhere. Popular tourist restaurants will usually have on their menu that they wash their salad and veggies in sterilised water and make tea, coffee and soup from that too.

Carry toilet paper everywhere . There are toilets available in restaurants or in public but there may not be toilet paper. Most of the time you have to pay for the public toilet and they may give you some toilet paper, but don’t count on it. Always have your stash.

Toilet paper goes in the bin . DO NOT put the toilet paper in the toilet. Please put it into the bin provided. Vietnam’s sewerage systems are not built for much more than human waste so toilet paper and other items will just clog up your toilet.

Embrace the “bum gun “. Next to every toilet in Vietnam, there is a water hose. This is not to wash down the floor. This is to clean yourself up after you do your business. Don’t be disgusted by this. Embrace it.

Vietnam is bigger than you think . This country is huge and many people underestimate it. Vietnam is about 1,650 kilometres long from north to south. The distance on buses and trains is long so be prepared.

Take note of the Vietnamese money . It will be a new currency for you so do take a look at it before you go out spending. There are more zeros in it than you might be used to (1USD = 23,000 Dong)

Always take photos when you rent a scooter . Renting a scooter in Vietnam is something everyone does. It is a great way to get around and see all the attractions. But where you rent it from can get you into trouble. Whenever you rent a scooter take photos of the bike or else might end up with a crazy expensive bill.

Always wear a helmet. Always . Please wear a helmet. The roads are crazier here than they are in your country. The rules are different and road conditions are not the best. A quality helmet could save your life in an accident.

Make sure you have travel insurance . We tell people who are going travelling, “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.” You do not know what is going to happen while you are away and knowing you are covered will put your mind at ease.

Be confident when crossing the road . The roads in Vietnam are crazy. Crossing the road can be daunting but you need to be confident. Do not walk backward or hesitate. Walk slowly and watch the traffic coming towards you. They will all move around you.

Take your shoes off before entering a temple or a person’s home . It is a custom that stems back to ancient times and a big part comes back to cleanliness. The ground is used for chatting, dining and even sleeping.

Cover your shoulders and knees when entering a temple . This is common in most religious sites. There are always signs suggesting visitors dress ‘appropriately.’ Shoulders and knees should be covered. If it is a hot day and a t-shirt is too sticky, carry a scarf for when you visit to cover your shoulders.

Keep a low profile . Do not be loud, raise your voice in aggression or show off. Do not show dramatic affection publicly like kissing. Save it for the hotel room

Ask for permission before taking a photo of someone . This is polite and ensures you are not intruding on them. The people are not there for your entertainment. If they say no, smile and thank them anyway.

Do not take photos of anything to do with the government or military.  This is a big NO in any country and can end up with you in jail.

Do not touch someone on the head . The head is the most important part of the body. Touching someone’s head who you don’t know is like saying you are more important than they are.

Place your chopsticks across the top of the bowl when finished . Don’t have your chopsticks hanging out of the bowl, and don’t point them at anyone when they are resting on the plate.

VIETNAM PACKING LIST

We always travel with a  core packing list  wherever we go. And when it comes to Vietnam, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you. 

Check out our  travel essentials  and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below. 

Important Note!  Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is  World Nomads .

TRAVEL INSURANCE. SIMPLE & FLEXIBLE.

Which countries or regions are you traveling to, what’s your country of residence, enter traveler’s age, staying safe in vietnam.

Vietnam is extremely safe, apart from the one major danger which is the roads. They are crazy, even more so if you try to ride 10’000km around the country on motorbikes as we did!

Aside from that, common sense will keep you safe.

Here are a few reminders of what common sense when travelling in Vietnam means:

As you saw above, Vietnam is extremely safe. We did not feel unsafe once in the 7 months we were there (excluding the roads).

This doesn’t mean you can completely let your guard down though, and petty theft does happen in this country, although it’s not common.

Some tips for protecting your things:

In other words, use common sense and you’ll be fine.

STAYING CONNECTED IN VIETNAM

Staying connected with friends and family (and work) when travelling in Vietnam is important. But if you don’t know how to connect you can find yourself greatly inconvenienced or spending too much money.

We feel like your money will go a lot further if you consider a few options. 

Purchase a SIM Card

Picking up a SIM card has become the quickest and typically most affordable way to stay connected in Vietnam or any country for that matter.

If you have an unlocked phone you can use a 4G SIM card to connect to the cellular networks in Vietnam. From there you can cast a hot spot if you need to crank out some work on your computer or want to connect a tablet.

This 3G/4G SIM card  is a great and affordable option for a SIM card if you are flying into Vietnam.

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

Alternatively to a SIM card, particularly if you don’t have an unlocked phone, you can rent a portable WiFi device during your travel to Vietnam.

This device  will be delivered to you when you arrive in Vietnam and will provide 4G service for less than USD$5 per day.

You’ll be able to connect anywhere you can find service across the country, which will be most of the places you are likely to travel in Vietnam.

Access Free WiFI

Free is always best, if it is convenient. And there are plenty of places throughout Vietnam that will provide free WiFi in public spaces or at restaurants, cafes and hostels and hotels.

We recommend using the  WiFi Finder  app, which will help you locate WiFi anywhere you travel in Vietnam.

BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER IN VIETNAM

We absolutely love Vietnam. And we love the idea that it will remain a beautiful and friendly place for travellers for years to come.

Here are a few tips specific to travel to Vietnam that will promote sustainable tourism in the country:

Use your own energy to get around.  Walk or cycle through town as much as possible. Taking a cyclo-taxi is a close alternative if you don’t have the energy to propel yourself through the city. But this reduces the impact of taxis, busses and other forms of automotive transportation.

Mind your plastic . Plastic is everywhere in Vietnam. But using your own reusable bag for groceries and other shopping, carrying a reusable water bottle and having your own straw are just 3 of the many simple ways you can reduce the amount of plastic you use.

Shop local . Visiting the markets will be one of your top experiences when travelling to Vietnam. Support local vendors as often as possible, including in taking tours when available.

Be mindful of wildlife . Wildlife in the wild is great. But be mindful not to provoke, feed or otherwise molest wildlife. And never purchase any item made of or involving rare or endangered species.

Attempt to communicate in Vietnamese . You’re probably not going to be fluent as soon as you arrive in the country. But knowing a few phrases and doing your best to communicate with locals will show respect and earn trust and make your experience richer.

KEY VIETNAMESE TRAVEL PHRASES

You don’t have to be fluent in Vietnamese to have a great time when you travel to Vietnam. But it does help to know a few key phrases.

This will not only assist you in your travels but it will also show respect to the local Vietnamese people that you are doing your best to assimilate into their culture. 

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT VIETNAM

Maybe you already know everything about Vietnam. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Vietnam. 

The Quiet American  (Graham Greene) – Originally published in 1956 and adapted for film twice, this story by Greene became an instant classic. Greene fictionalizes life in 1950s Vietnam as told by a British correspondent trying to understand the roots of the rising conflict set to occur.

At Home In The World  (Thich Nhat Hanh) – World renown Vietnamese monk, Hanh reflects on lessons and stories in life from the Buddhist perspective.

Vietnam: Rising Dragon  (Bill Hayton) – A piece of nonfiction that looks back on the Vietnam of old and attempts to projects its place in the future of Southeast Asia.

The Sympathizer  (Viet Thanh Nguyen) – The Pulitzer Prize-winning book, allegedly influenced by  The Quiet American , is told through the eyes of a double-agent during the Vietnam War who struggles to understand the minds and hearts of men engaged in war.

DISCLAIMER:  Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Table of Contents

Read our vietnam posts, 20 amazing things to do in hoi an, vietnam (2024 guide), 14 incredible things to do in dalat, vietnam (2024 guide), the perfect 3 days in hanoi itinerary [2024 guide], 25 amazing things to do in hanoi, vietnam (2024 guide), the perfect 3 days in ho chi minh city itinerary [2024], the 8 best day trips from ho chi minh city (2024 guide), caves, zip lines and deep mud in phong nha, ganh da dia – vietnam’s own ‘giant’s causeway’, ba be national park – the lake, trekking and happy water, motorbiking the road from dalat to nha trang in vietnam, riding sea to sky: hue to hoi an by motorbike, getting a chinese visa in hanoi, vietnam.

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Vietnam Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Vietnam.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Vietnam.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Vietnam.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Vietnam take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Vietnam.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Vietnam. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Vietnam, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Vietnam. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Vietnam, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Vietnam. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Vietnam—such as dengue, Zika, and filariasis—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Vietnam include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Vietnam. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Vietnam’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Vietnam. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Vietnam may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Vietnam, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Vietnam, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Vietnam .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Vietnam, dial 115 for an ambulance, 114 for the fire department, and 113 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you on your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Vietnam before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Vietnam from the US Department of State

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Vietnam for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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• Climate and Best Time to Visit Vietnam
• Practical matters
• Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba Island
• Mai Chau and Pu Luong
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• Tips & Tricks

Packing For Vietnam: Smart Traveler’s Tips And Tricks

So, you’ve booked your flight. You’ve got your visa. You’re excited and counting the days and hours to the moment your plane takes off and brings you to the unknown. And here the luggage question crops up. But worry not! With this list of tips, there won’t be anything easier than packing for Vietnam!

1. Choose the right bag

You can’t packing start if you don’t have a bag to pack, right?:)

When it comes to packing for Vietnam , our general advice is: travel light ! Unless you have a personal driver who will bring you from point A to point B, C, D, E, etc. Throughout your whole trip, and unless you stay in serviced hotels, your motto should be “less is more”. Expect to squeeze your way through the people, bikes, and chairs on the narrow sidewalks and take the stairs up in guesthouses. A suitcase of “essentials” won’t be too helpful if it’s twice your size and three times your weight.  

Therefore, you might want to consider a roomy travel backpack or a compact suitcase , which won’t be a burden when you are moving from place to place.

2. Clothing

When p acking for Vietnam , consider the time of the year, the season (read more about the climate and weather ), and the kind of activities you’re planning to take up. Here are some general tips.

Summer. Be ready for scorching hot days, humid and literally sticky air and regular rainfalls. So, pack light, quick-dry breathable clothes. Make sure to have enough shirts and underwear for the length of your stay, because you might want to change them more often than usual.

Winter. It can get actually chilly, but luckily drier than summer. A sweatshirt and a dawn jacket are a must.

Appearance is very important for the Vietnamese – you will notice a lot of stylish people, especially in the big cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. However, they are still modern dressers, and you won’t see much bright colors, massive jewelry or too revealing outfits.

For city tours , prepare casual and comfortable outfits, which would look nice, but wouldn’t turn you into a stew.

Nature, sports and off-the-grid activities . You will hike the mountains, explore the caves, walk on muddy paths in villages and go kayaking. You can get dirty. Avoid white and pack lightweight, quick-drying clothes. Even if the summers are hot, don’t neglect at least one long-sleeve shirt and long pants. In highlands, it can be cool at night, and mosquitoes come out for a hunt!

Beaches and swimming pools. These are in abundance in Vietnam, and especially in the summer you will not skip them! Don’t forget your swimsuit.

Visiting temples . Respect the tradition, and make sure to pack clothes that cover knees and shoulders. Another tip is hygiene-related. Sometimes, you will have to take off your shoes to come inside, so a spare pair of socks in your bag will be handy.

Comfort and practicality are the first thing you should think of when packing for Vietnam . Consider these: 1 pair of sneakers/walking shoes (though we wouldn’t recommend you to ballast your luggage with heavy hiking boots); 1 pair of flip-flops/sandals ; and 1 pair of nice go-out shoes .

4. Essential accessories

Light raincoat. Again, the tropical rainfalls can’t be overestimated. If you don’t fancy getting soaked through, we’d recommend you have one with you.

Hat/cap in summer seasons. Sunstroke creeps over unnoticed. Protect yourself and cover the most vulnerable body part. Toss a cap in your bag, or, as you’re packing for Vietnam, you can but of those traditional conical hats from the street vendors here!

Sunglasses will protect your eyes not only from the dazzling sunshine, but also from the dust that is not infrequent on the roads during the hot summer days. Have a pair of shades in your bag. And if not, you can always make your way to one of the local markets when already in Vietnam.

5. Toiletries and medicines

UV-cream and skincare. You can, of course, find these items in the shops in Vietnam. But keep in mind that the fashion trends here are a little bit different. Most of the skincare products are whitening, and if you don’t manage to read the Vietnamese words on the package, so you can easily end your holidays with a pale face instead of that summer blush. Therefore, you might consider bringing your regular products with you.

Personal hygiene. Avoid the wasteful travel-size packaging and instead buy a reusable toiletry container kit. These compact containers help you save three things at once: the environment, your money, and room in your luggage!

First aid kit . Cuts, wounds, burns, and bruises are travelers’ faithful companions. But in the hot and humid climate of Southeast Asia, the risks of any infection increase tenfold. Make sure you have at least band-aids and disinfectants, when packing for Vietnam , especially if you’re planning active holidays in nature. Medicines . The same advice applies to medicines. The basic kit can include fever-reducing drugs and upset stomach medicines for gastrointestinal ailments and infection . If you ‘re currently taking prescription medicines, make sure to have enough and to spare. There are pharmacies in the big cities but most probably you won’t find all the same drugs as you get from your local pharmacy.

6. Electronics

Power bank . You’re traveling, so you are definitely into adventures. But being lost in the middle of nowhere without a chance to charge your phone, to check the map and look for transportation is highly unlikely the adventure you’ve dreamt about.

Waterproof case . There are two major dangers for your smartphone. First, it’s unpredictable rains in [this climate] . Second, it’s your possible carelessness when doing water-related activities. Take care of your main means of communication and invest in a waterproof case.

Camera/smartphone. Live the moment and capture it too! Some places can be pretty, some can be charming, but Vietnam is nothing less than magnetizing for photographers. Even if you’ve only mastered your smartphone camera, you won’t want to leave without a few great shots!   Action camera/GoPro . Kayaking in Halong Bay ? Clambering into the caves in Phong Nha National Park? Hiking on Cat Ba Island? You will have a trip to remember, a good action camera won’t go amiss!

7. Miscellaneous

Travel pillow and mask – this essential travel-kit will ensure your princess-sleep on the road.

Earplugs . Imagine: you’re locked in the airplane with a good dozen crying babies, or in a bus surrounded by deafening car hooters. But you zone out and relax, thanks to this pair of little life-savers.

Travel towel. It weighs almost nothing, folds small and will serve you in a lot of cases. A real must-have for a pool, beach or a hostel.

Toilet paper.  If you’ll visit small towns and rural areas, don’t expect radiant white fully serviced toilets. Have a roll in your backpack.

Reusable water bottle, straws and forks.  We hope that these items have already become a part of your daily life. Don’t forget your reusables and travel guilt-free. Insect repellant. You can find it here in the shops, but if you don’t want to spend time on the local convenience stores, just throw one in your luggage.

A lock is as handy as the towel. You might need it for safety boxes in hotels and hostels, and lockers in public places like swimming pools or gyms.

Now zip up your bag and you’re ready to go!

Looking for more tips.

Souvenirs in Vietnam: What to Buy

Vietnamese Culture: Avoiding Culture Shock

Long Haul Flight Tips – We Cover Everything, From How to Stay Healthy to How to Be Comfy

Vietnam Transportation Guide – All You Need to Know

Vietnam Survival Guide: Most Common Scams & Safety Tips

Top 5 Reasons to Travel to Vietnam With Friends

Best Free Travel Apps for Vietnam

Top 5 Local Insights You Need to Know About Tet in Vietnam

About spoton vietnam.

A blog covering all things Vietnam: from itinerary planning to destination highlights and handy travel tips & tricks. Wander wisely with our travel articles!

Recent Posts

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• Best Places to Visit in Vietnam In December October 9, 2019

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Are you traveling or living outside the U.S.? STEP is a free service that sends you emails with updates from the local U.S. embassy or consulate. If there’s an emergency where you are, it helps us contact you with instructions on what to do.

Why join STEP?

• Get real time updates about health, weather, safety, and security in the country.
• Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy.
• Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there’s an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.

What kind of messages does STEP send? Currently, STEP sends emails only. STEP can send you several types of information:

• Routine Messages : News and updates about the country you picked.
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Best E-Sim Cards for Traveling to Vietnam in 2024

Are you planning your trip to Vietnam and looking for the best way to stay connected with an e-sim card? This is a complete guide with everything you need to know about using an e-sim card when traveling to Vietnam including a comparison of the best Vietnam e-sim cards in 2024.

Don’t waste money on high roaming charges, read my recommendations below and order an e-sim card for Vietnam on the internet and get connected in just a couple minutes. Below you will find up to date prices as per April 2024, including all specifications per tourist e-sim card.

This guide will show you where and when to order an e-sim card for Vietnam, answer all your FAQ’s about e-sim cards, a comparison with local prepaid sim cards for Vietnam and of course links to directly order your e-sim card for traveling to Vietnam online.

Since 2012 I am already traveling the world full time and throughout the years I turned my passion for traveling into a lifestyle and became a full time nomadic travel blogger . That is why I constantly get to a different country and pretty much every week I need to look for a new sim card to stay connected.

In 2023 I visited for example 34 different countries in 1 year so imagine how many different prepaid and e-sim cards I used throughout the year.

In the past I used to buy a local prepaid sim card on arrival in every country, but nowadays I mostly use e-sim cards to stay connected when traveling abroad. On my latest trip to Vietnam I tested the below recommended Vietnam e-sim cards for tourists.

Helping other travelers to save money while traveling the world is one of the reasons I started this travel blog. Providing essential travel tips is what made me start writing sim card guides from every country I visited and now on Traveltomtom you can already find more than 200 sim card guides from all over the world.

You can also find a complete guide for buying a prepaid sim card for tourists in Vietnam in 2024  for those who don't have an e-sim compatible phone.

Traveltomtom also wrote specific and in-depth guides for buying e-sim cards in: Philippines ,  Malaysia , New Zealand , Australia , Hong Kong , China , Indonesia , Thailand , Asia , Turkey , Egypt , Dubai , Europe , United Kingdom , Italy , USA , international e-sim cards and many more.

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So next time you are planning your adventure abroad come check out Traveltomtom for the latest prepaid sim card and e-sim card advice for your holiday destination.

First I will make a Vietnam e-sim card comparison then I will explain how e-sim cards work, more about the network coverage and 4G/5G, data speed, answer some FAQ about e-sim cards, show you the difference between e-sim cards for tourists and local prepaid sim cards in Vietnam and tell everything else you need to know about using e-sim cards when traveling to Vietnam. 

Let me start with giving you my e-sim card recommendation for Vietnam. These are my favorite e-sim cards for traveling to Vietnam in 2024.

My recommendation

Traveltomtom recommends the following two e-sim cards for traveling to Vietnam in 2024: 

1. Airalo e-sim card for $32 USD

• 20 GB data-only e-sim
• Operates on the Viettel network
• Valid in Vietnam only
• Valid for 30 days
• $1.6 USD per Gigabyte

2. Vinaphone e-sim card for $19.90 USD

• 30 GB data-only e-sim
• Operates on the Vinaphone network
• Valid for 10 days
• Only $0.66 USD per Gigabyte
• Comes with a Vietnam phone number +84

I am sure that when you are putting both e-sim cards above next to each other your first question is why is the Vinaphone e-sim card from SimOptions ranked 2 and the Airalo e-sim card ranked number 1. Right?

Well, let me explain because I totally understand that the Vinaphone e-sim card offers much more and is also cheaper so this should be the number 1 recommendation for e-sim cards for Vietnam.

However, the big difference is the mobile data network. The Vinaphone mobile data network is not bad, but the Xin Chao e-sim cards from Airalo operate on the Viettel mobile data network which is just much more advanced. So for traveling in Vietnam Traveltomtom always recommends a prepaid or e-sim card from Viettel over any other mobile internet provider.

For more details about the 4G/5G network strength including 4G/5G network coverage maps check out Traveltomtom's guide for the best prepaid sim card for tourists in Vietnam in 2024 .

The best value tourist e-sim cards for Vietnam is the Vinaphone e-sim cards that you can order via SimOptions. Vinaphone is one of the leading mobile internet providers in Vietnam. Their e-sim card deal will give you a rate of only $0.66 USD per Gigabyte.

Still Traveltomtom recommends an Airalo e-sim card from Xin Chao because it operates on the Viettel network which is by far the fastest and strongest 4G/LTE network in Vietnam.

Is Vietnam one of your stops on a trip to Asia or around the world then you can also look into getting an e-sim card for world travelers or an e-sim card for traveling in Asia . There are a bunch of e-sim cards that cover multiple countries.

There are 2 very important things to check before ordering an e-sim card for Vietnam or in general before using an e-sim card. 

Unlocked phones only

Make sure your phone is unlocked. E-sim cards for tourists only work in unlocked phones. If you are not sure if your phone is unlocked then contact your mobile internet provider in your home country.

In general phones from Europe, Asia and the Middle East tend to be unlocked. Phones from North America are often locked.

If your smartphone is locked that means it does not allow another prepaid sim card or e-sim card to operate in the device. You can easily unlock your phone, but depending on your mobile internet provider you will be charged a fee for unlocking your phone.

E-sim compatible phones only

Second, and equally important: e-sim cards only work if your smartphone supports e-sim cards, also called e-sim compatible. All newer smartphones support e-sim cards. If you are not sure if your phone is e-sim compatible then simply go to Google and type in your mobile phone model in the search bar and ask if it is e-sim compatible. You will get the answer instantly. 

If your phone is NOT e-sim compatible then there is no other solution and you can NOT use an e-sim card for traveling to Vietnam.

However, you can still order a sim card for Vietnam on the internet before your trip. Find out everything you need to know about international sim cards for traveling abroad in 2024 .

Comparison of the best e-sim cards for Vietnam

Buying an e-sim card on arrival in Vietnam is unfortunately still not possible. Not at the international airports of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and neither in phone stores anywhere around Vietnam. The mobile internet providers in Vietnam do NOT provide e-sim cards for tourists, only physical prepaid sim cards for tourists.

Luckily there are multiple e-sim providers on the internet that sell Vietnam e-sim cards for tourists. Traveltomtom recommends ordering an e-sim card for traveling in Vietnam from one of the well-known e-sim card providers that have proven to be reliable operators. 

Here are 3 trusted e-sim card providers and they sell great e-sim card plans for Vietnam. They are tested and reviewed multiple times by Traveltomtom: 

Nowadays, you can buy an e-sim card for pretty much every country around the world. Order directly from one of the above e-sim card providers and instantly receive your e-sim card in your email. But before you buy an e-sim card first read all my tips below.

SimOptions is the only e-sim provider that also offers international prepaid sim cards for Vietnam . These are pre-activated physical prepaid sim cards that will be delivered to your home address before your trip and it is plug and play when you arrive in Vietnam.

Airalo and Nomad only sell e-sim cards for Vietnam.

Lately I have been recommending Nomad e-sim cards a lot as they have really great deals for a lot of countries. The Nomad e-sim card plans for Vietnam are not bad either, though they all operate on the 4G/LTE mobile data network of Mobifone and unfortunately Mobifone has the weakest 4G/LTE network in Vietnam.

However, if you travel to just Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City Nomad e-sim cards for Vietnam will do the job too.

Here are the Nomad e-sim card plans for Vietnam: 

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $9 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $13 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $22 USD
• 15 GB data for 30 days = $28 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $34 USD
• 30 GB data for 30 days = $80 USD
• 40 GB data for 30 days = $110 USD
• 50 GB data for 30 days = $125 USD

Click here to order an e-sim card for Vietnam from Nomad .

The Nomad website is a little less user friendly for finding the best e-sim cards for traveling to Vietnam. You can't see all e-sim card deals in one overview.

As you can see above the prices for Nomad Vietnam e-sim cards with bigger data plans are outrageously expensive and not worth it. Their best value deal is the plan with 20 GB for $34 USD which comes down to $1.7 USD per Gigabyte.

The Nomad e-sim cards are from Joytel and they are data-only. Incoming and outgoing calls and sms are NOT supported. They operate on the LTE/4G network of Mobifone.

The Nomad Vietnam e-sim cards have to be installed on your phone within 30 days and after installation its validity starts when it connects for the first time to a supported network in Vietnam. Basically when the plane lands. For more info check the Nomad website . 

SimOptions is a reputable e-sim card provider that is very much recommended by Traveltomtom. Ordering your tourist e-sim card for Vietnam through SimOptions is done fast and easy.

Traveltomtom has used SimOptions uncountable times for staying connected when traveling abroad. Very reliable, never an issue and often some of the cheapest e-sim card deals.

SimOptions has their own e-sim card plans and they don't specify which network in Vietnam they use. Therefore I would not directly recommend these plans: 

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $7.90 USD
• 6 GB data for 10 days = $17.90 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $39.90 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $64.90 USD

Also these SimOptions e-sim plans for Vietnam are pretty expensive compared to Nomad for example. Their best value offer is the 6 GB data e-sim for $17.90 USD which comes down to $3 USD per Gigabyte.

However, SimOptions also sells an e-sim card from Vinaphone which is actually a pretty damn good deal.

• 30 GB data for 10 days = $19.90 USD

Click here to order a SimOptions e-sim card for Vietnam .

This Vinaphone e-sim card goes as low as $0.66 USD per Gigabyte only. On top of that this Vinaphone e-sim card for Vietnam comes with a Vietnamese phone number which means you can receive calls and sms. However, this e-sim is sold as a data-only e-sim and outgoing calls and sms are not supported.

It is unclear if you can top up with calling credit while in Vietnam. 

All the e-sim cards that you can order through SimOptions are only valid in Vietnam. The only exception is the Smart Traveller eSIM with 3GB data, this e-sim card is valid in 26 countries around the world. It also is the best value SimOptions e-sim card with $3 USD per Gigabyte.

Unfortunately SimOptions doesn’t specify exactly which mobile network operator in Vietnam they use and the SimOptions e-sim cards for Vietnam are not 5G ready, so the max data speed on the e-sim cards from SimOptions is 4G/LTE.

The SimOptions e-sim cards for Vietnam do NOT come with a phone number (apart from the Vinaphone e-sim) and they do not offer incoming/outgoing calls or sms services. The validity of these e-sim cards is 1 year and the credit validity starts instantly after installing the e-sim card, even if you are not in Vietnam. For more info check the SimOptions website . 

Airalo is a very reliable e-sim card provider and Traveltomtom has used Airalo uncountable times in more than 50 countries around the world. I can totally recommend using Airalo for ordering an e-sim card. 

Why using Airalo? When it comes to Vietnam e-sim cards Airalo has great e-sim card plans and in contrary to Nomad and SimOptions they operate on the best mobile data network in Vietnam: Viettel. Therefore Traveltomtom recommends Airalo as the best e-sim cards for Vietnam.

Here are the Airalo data-only e-sim card plans for Vietnam for 2024: 

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4.5 USD
• 2 GB data for 15 days = $7 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $9.5 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $21 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $32 USD

Click here to order an e-sim card for Vietnam from Airalo .

The Airalo e-sim cards for Vietnam are from Xin Chao and they operate on the 4G/LTE network of Mobifone and Viettel. Unfortunately the Airalo Xin Chao e-sim cards for Vietnam are not 5G ready yet.

The best value e-sim card from Airalo gives you 20 GB data for $1.6 USD per Gigabyte.

In the most popular places to visit in Vietnam you will find a 4G/LTE signal and the data speed is pretty good these days. There is 5G already in Vietnam but it is not so widespread.

For more info about the best 4G/5G mobile data network in Vietnam check my complete guide for the best prepaid sim card for Vietnam in 2024 , including network coverage maps of all the mobile internet providers.

All the Airalo e-sim cards are data-only sim cards without a phone number, so any phone/sms service is NOT supported. An Airalo e-sim card has to be installed within 1 month and after activation the credit validity starts when it connects the first time to a supported network. For more info check out the Airalo website .

What is the cheapest e-sim card for Vietnam?

The cheapest e-sim card for Vietnam is an e-sim card from Nomad for just $4 USD , it will give you 1 GB data for 7 days. Airalo offers the same e-sim card plan but charges $4.5 USD. These e-sims are only valid in Vietnam and do not support calling and texting. 

Why ordering an e-sim card for traveling in Vietnam

E-sim cards are the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Vietnam in 2024 and you can arrange everything online in just a couple clicks. No more visiting a sim card shop and swapping physical sim cards. Order online, scan the QR code, follow the steps and you are connected in less than 2 minutes. 

The most important reason to get an e-sim card is because we would like to stay connected on our trip to Vietnam without wasting money on high roaming costs. Our smartphones are pretty useless without a working data connection. Think about ordering a taxi through an app, finding nearby friends, restaurants and bars. Get directions from Google Maps or simply staying in touch with family back home, check your social media apps on long bus rides or your banking apps when paying contactless. 

One of the best things about arriving in Vietnam with an activated e-sim card is that you are online as soon as the plane lands. More about when to instal your e-sim card later.

There are so many reasons to stay connected when traveling to Vietnam, but the most important reason is that it makes your trip to Vietnam so much more convenient and fun!

At the same time we don’t want to waste money on high roaming charges. Many mobile internet operators still charge $3 USD per MB for data roaming, that means just opening the Instagram app will already cost you 20 MB * $3 USD = $60 USD! Not kidding… it still is very common in 2024.

E-sim cards are the easiest way to avoid high roaming charges!

Overseas data roaming plans

So what about overseas data roaming plans? Well, not recommended! Why? Did you read the small letters at what data speed you can use data roaming? Pretty much all mobile internet operators limit the data speed for overseas data roaming plans, which means you end up with 3G data speed. Do you have the patience to handle 3G? It is frustrating when all around you in pretty  much every amazing tourist destinations in Vietnam there is 4G/LTE available.

And price-wise it should be a no brainer since you have seen how affordable the e-sim cards for Vietnam are.

Uncountable times travel friends have asked me: “Tom, can I use your hotspot? My data roaming plan is so slow, it is barely working!” Trust me, get yourself an e-sim card or an international prepaid sim card for traveling to Vietnam.

Spend a couple dollars extra and be connected all the time instead of begging for WiFi or a hotspot from friends. 

Where to buy an e-sim card for Vietnam? 

You can buy an e-sim card for Vietnam on the internet through an e-sim card provider. There are multiple e-sim card providers for Vietnam. Traveltomtom compared 6 e-sim card providers and concluded that the above mentioned ones ( SimOptions , Airalo and Nomad ) are the best e-sim card providers in 2024.

When buying an e-sim card for Vietnam through one of the above recommended e-sim providers you only need your email address and the e-sim card is instantly ready to use after installation. There is no ID registration needed.

On arrival in Vietnam

There are 3 main mobile internet provider in Vietnam: Vinaphone, Mobifone and Viettel. Unfortunately as per April 2024 none of the mobile internet operators offer e-sim cards for tourists. They only offer physical prepaid sim cards for tourists.

For more info about buying a prepaid sim card for tourists in Vietnam in 2024  click on the link to read my complete guide and comparison of all the mobile internet providers in Vietnam, including a comparison of the 4G/5G network. In that comparison you will clearly see the difference in network strength between Vinaphone, Mobifone and Viettel.

Flying into Vietnam and landing at Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City Airport then you can buy a tourist sim card for Vietnam on arrival at the airport. Unfortunately Traveltomtom has not yet written an article about that, but it will come soon.

At the international airports in Vietnam you will find several sim card shops from Viettel, Mobifone and Vinaphone and lots of phone shops that sell all kind of tourist sim cards. In Ho Chi Minh City Airport you can already buy a sim card before you go through passport control, but also in the arrival hall.

As mentioned before the sim cards shops in Vietnam only sell physical prepaid sim cards for tourists, no e-sims.

When to order/activate an e-sim card for Vietnam?

You can order an e-sim card for Vietnam pretty much any time you want. Most e-sim cards have to be installed on a phone within 1 month after purchasing, some even within 1 year, so you have time.

More important therefore is when do you instal/activate the e-sim card. The validity of some e-sims start straight after the installation, other e-sim cards only start their validity when they connect the first time to a supported network.

Traveltomtom advices to instal your e-sim card on the day of departure to Vietnam or before. You will need a stable internet connection to instal your e-sim card. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City international airport both have free WiFi which works good so you could use that to install your e-sim card.

Just make sure it is a stable internet connection. But just to make sure Traveltomtom advices you to install/activate your e-sim card in your home country. 

My personal advice is to instal your tourist e-sim card for Vietnam before you get into the plane, because then as soon as the plane lands you will be connected to the internet without any problems. 

How do I know all this? Traveltomtom has visited Vietnam 5 times and traveled all around the country to most of its amazing places to visit.

How to activate an e-sim card

Installing and activating an e-sim card is made as simple as possible. Everyone can activate an e-sim card and the instructions on how to are very detailed and will be send to you instantly by email. But wait, it gets even easier. Just scan the QR code. 

When you order an e-sim card plan for Vietnam you instantly receive a summery of your order including a QR-code after the payment is processed.

You will see a summary of your e-sim card order including a QR code on your screen and at the same time you will also receive an email with the same QR code. The email contains instructions on how to instal and activate your Vietnam e-sim card. 

But installing an activating an e-sim card is as easy as scanning the QR code with the same phone where you want to activate the e-sim card on. The QR contains all the information about your Vietnam e-sim card. 

Once you scan the code you will be guided through a couple simple steps and within less than 1 minute your e-sim card is successfully installed.

Very important is that you are connected to the internet when installing your e-sim card otherwise you will get an error and issues can occur. 

Tip: if you order an e-sim card with the same phone where you want to instal the e-sim card on then ask a friend or someone nearby to take a photo of the QR code and then you scan the QR code from his/her phone and start the installation.

Best ways to get around Vietnam

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Find even flights, taxis and shuttles and check the seat availability and book directly online and receive your confirmed ticket instantly in your email. 

Things to know before ordering an e-sim card for Vietnam 

Here are some general tips and FAQ’s for using e-sim cards when traveling abroad. These tips do not only apply for Vietnam e-sim cards, but are things you have to know before buying an e-sim card in general.

Make sure your phone is unlocked

To make sure you didn’t miss this, let me say this again: e-sim cards only work in UNLOCKED phones. If your phone is unlocked then you can use any e-sim card without any problems.

If your phone is locked then ask your mobile internet provider from your home country to unlock your phone before your trip to Vietnam. It is likely that your mobile internet provider will charge you a fee for unlocking your smartphone. 

If you are unable to unlock your phone you can look into getting a portable WiFi for staying connected when traveling to Vietnam or better… bring a second unlocked phone on your trip to Vietnam and use it as a portable WiFi device.

Which smartphones support e-sim cards?

Another very important thing you have to check before buying an e-sim card is if your smartphone supports e-sim cards. If you have any of the latest smartphones then there is no need to worry, all new smartphones of the well known brands support e-sim cards. 

The fastest way to find out if your phone is e-sim compatible is by asking Google the question: is my (your phone model) e-sim compatible? Simple as that!

Can I trust these e-sim card providers?

All the e-sim card providers for Vietnam recommended above ( SimOptions , Airalo and Nomad ) are reputable e-sim card providers reviewed and tested by Traveltomtom. All of them are licensed third party companies and resellers that partner or work directly with the mobile internet providers in Vietnam.

Traveltomtom has successfully partnered for several consecutive years with SimOptions and Airalo. Nomad is a fairly new partner of Traveltomtom, but has so far proven to be a reliable e-sim card provider as well. All e-sim card providers have their own Helpdesk which you can contact may you encounter any problems or in case you want to claim a refund.

Traveltomtom does NOT sell Vietnam e-sim cards, only RECOMMENDS you to use e-sim cards for your next trip to Vietnam.

Can I keep my phone number from home with a Vietnam e-sim card?

Yes, you can and this is for many people a reason to order an e-sim card to stay connected when traveling to Vietnam. An e-sim card can be used next to your physical or e-sim card from your home country at the same time. You do not need a dual-sim phone for using an e-sim card.

So you can have multiple e-sim cards installed on your phone? Yes, no problem at all!

For example: you can turn off the mobile data from your sim card from home but still use it for texting and calling. Your new Vietnam e-sim card you can be used at the same time just for data to ensure you are not wasting money on high roaming costs.

This is also the trick to keep receiving sms for example for OTP (one time password) sms to login to applications.

Switching between physical and e-sim cards is a matter of turning them on/off in the settings. Just always make sure your sim card from home is switched off for data roaming.

Can I make phone calls with a Vietnam e-sim card?

No, unfortunately all the tourist e-sim cards for Vietnam available on the internet do NOT include calling and texting. The e-sim cards from SimOptions , Airalo and Nomad  are data-only e-sim cards and any incoming/outgoing calls/sms are not supported. 

If you buy a prepaid sim card for tourists on arrival in Vietnam in a store or at the airport then you get (unlimited) calling and texting included.

Most hotels, restaurants and tour companies in Vietnam have WhatsApp services, so you can easily give them a call through WhatsApp. There is no direct need for local calling minutes. 

Does a Vietnam e-sim card come with a phone number?

No, most of the Vietnam e-sim cards that you can buy on the internet do not come with a phone number, which also means you can not receive any phone calls or sms.

There is one exception and that is the Vinaphone e-sim card with 30 GB data that you can buy vis SimOptions . This e-sim comes with a Vietnam phone number starting with +84.

Local prepaid sim cards that you can buy once you arrive in Vietnam offer incoming and outgoing calling and texting.

In the above Vietnam e-sim card comparison you can find all the specifications per e-sim card.

Can I use 5G on an Vietnam e-sim card?

No, unfortunately none of the by Traveltomtom recommended e-sim cards for Vietnam are 5G ready. Which means the max data speed on all e-sims is 4G/LTE. That said, Mobifone and Vinaphone do barely offer 5G anyway and the 5G network from Viettel is also still fairly small.

Are there e-sim cards for Vietnam with unlimited data?

None of the by Traveltomtom recommended Vietnam e-sim cards for tourists include unlimited data.

Even if you would come across e-sim card providers that offer e-sim cards for Vietnam with unlimited data then make sure the unlimited data is on max data speed. Mostly the data speed is capped after you used X amount of Gigabytes. 

Holafly is an e-sim card provider that sells e-sim cards with unlimited data, but does NOT specify what is the exact so-called Fair Use Policy (FUP). 

Traveltomtom does NOT recommend Vietnam e-sim cards with unlimited data plans. There are always restrictions. And on Holafly sim cards I experienced a reduce in data speed after using more than 2 GB per day. When I contacted support they explained me that I had to wait for 24 hours until my data speed was restored to normal.

Those 24 hours were a nightmare as my data speed was barely enough to use WhatsApp. Social media apps were not even loading! 

Again, Traveltomtom does NOT recommend e-sim cards for Vietnam with unlimited data. But if you think you will never use more than 2 GB per day, then this might be your favorite e-sim card. However, what is then the point of an e-sim with unlimited data is what you have to ask yourself.

An  Airalo e-sim card for $32 USD  gives you 30 GB data which for most travelers is more than enough for their trip to Vietnam.

There are a lot of different specifications per e-sim card. Another reason why I advice you to take a close look at my comparison of the best e-sim cards for traveling to Vietnam in 2024 before choosing your favorite.

Are e-sim cards the best way to stay connected when traveling to Vietnam?

E-sim cards are the easiest and fastest way to get data on your phone when traveling to Vietnam, but what is the best way?

There are 3 ways to stay connected when traveling to Vietnam:

Local prepaid sim cards

International prepaid sim cards, e-sim cards.

Let’s compare e-sim cards, local prepaid sim cards and international prepaid sim cards, for you to find out what is your preferred way of staying connected.  

In general if you use a lot of data then local prepaid sim cards are a cheaper way to stay connected, depending on the length of your trip. 

Vietnam prepaid sim cards for tourists offer bigger data plans than tourist e-sim cards you order online. In fact local prepaid sim cards with data are pretty cheap for tourists in Vietnam.

However, a local prepaid sim card can only be purchased on arrival in Vietnam in a phone store or at the airport but NOT on the internet. 

Another big difference is that local prepaid sim cards have the advantage that they come with a local phone number and mostly with calling minutes and sms bundles. That means incoming and outgoing calls are supported.

More info about the best Vietnam sim cards for tourists can be found in my complete guide for buying a prepaid sim card for Vietnam in 2024 . 

If your smartphone is not e-sim compatible you can order an international prepaid sim card for traveling to Vietnam. Some of them are great for Vietnam as well as in all other countries in for example Europe, Americas and Asia and you can easily order them online.

If after visiting Vietnam you are traveling onwards in Asia then check Traveltomtom’s list of the best sim cards for traveling internationally in 2024 .

A pre-activated physical sim card will be delivered to your home address before your trip. You put this physical sim card in your phone and as soon as the plane touches the ground in Vietnam and the sim card connects to a supported network you are online. Plug and play! 

Click here to order an international prepaid sim card for Vietnam directly online .

As explained throughout the article there are two different e-sim cards:

• E-sim cards that you buy on the internet through a third party
• E-sim cards that you buy in Vietnam in a mobile internet provider store

However, as of April 2024 the mobile internet providers in Vietnam do not offer e-sim cards for tourists. They only offer physical prepaid sim cards for tourists in Vietnam.

On arrival at Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City International Airport the sim card stores only sells physical prepaid sim cards for tourists.

E-sim cards vs. local prepaid sim cards

Getting an e-sim card on the internet is the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Vietnam, no doubt! You arrange everything online within just a couple clicks. Right here, right now and you are all set for your trip to Vietnam.

You arrive prepared and there is no need to visit a sim card shop on arrival in Vietnam. As soon as the plane lands, you are online!

But what is cheaper? An e-sim card or a local prepaid sim card for tourists?

When we compare the prices for Vietnam e-sim cards with the prices for local prepaid sim cards in Vietnam, it is an easy conclusion that local prepaid sim cards are much more affordable as you get many more Gigabytes for the same price.

In fact, for around $10 USD you can already get a prepaid sim card with unlimited data for 1 month. For more info check out my article about the best prepaid sim cards for Vietnam in 2024 . 

But local prepaid sim cards can only be bought in Vietnam on arrival in a sim card shop or at the airport and a tourist e-sim card for Vietnam can be bought in 2 minutes on the internet before your trip to Vietnam. 

Remember that some of the e-sim cards for Vietnam also go down to only $0.98 USD per Gigabyte as well. 

After a long flight you just want to get to your hotel and it is often a big task to go to a sim card store and get connected. With e-sim cards you buy on the internet you are connected as soon as the plane lands.

For this convenience Traveltomtom definitely recommends to order one of the listed best e-sim cards for Vietnam in the comparison above.

Many reasons why a lot of travelers simply get an e-sim card for Vietnam. Faster, easier, less stress and even cheaper depending on how much data you need.

Another difference between a local prepaid sim card and an e-sim card is that e-sim cards are often through a third party, a so called MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator). These MVNO’s operate on the network of one of the main mobile internet operators and basically buy bandwidth.

This may sound a little bit too technical, but what it means is that e-sim cards through an MVNO are the last ones in line when the line is busy. Especially during peak times, the performance of an e-sim cards is less compared to a local prepaid sim card from a mobile internet operator.

Bottomline: the data speed of e-sim cards can be less compared to a local prepaid Vietnam sim card.

I am sure some of the above tips for finding the best e-sim card for your trip to Vietnam were helpful. I hope that after reading through my comparison, tips and tricks it was easier to make a decision and order your e-sim card for Vietnam right away.

If you still have any questions about e-sim cards then please leave me a comment below and I am more than happy to help you out.

Curious what the life of a full time nomadic traveler looks like? Go check out my Instagram account @traveltomtom and follow along with daily updates from around the world about the good, the bad and the ugly about traveling.

Traveltomtom is on the road to 197, meaning I would like to travel to every country in the world. As of April 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, still about 40 to go, but no rush.

Enjoy your trip to Vietnam!

Some links in this article about the best e-sim cards for Vietnam are affiliate links. If you buy any product after clicking on an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. Don’t worry this is at absolutely no extra cost to you!

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THE VOICE OF VIETNAM - VOV World

Vietnam launches smart travel card.

The card is integrated with multi-function facets in tourism, healthcare, banks, trade, transportation and education.

It is issued in two forms: both a physical card and a convenient E-card. The physical cards are issued at tourist sites, through tourist guides, accommodation facilities such as hotels, and with various tour operators. Visitors need to have their national IDs or passports to register for a card.

In the meantime, users can register a Smart Travel Card or e-card by logging into the app "Vietnam Travel".

Hoang Quoc Hoa, Deputy Director of the Tourism Information Center, has said the smart travel card is considered a national tourist card under the national digital transformation program.

“The commercial card is very convenient for international visitors and very simple to get one. Tourists can apply for the card from their home country on the ‘Vietnam Travel’ platform before coming to Vietnam,” Hoa explained.

Another possibility, said Hoa, is that when tourists book a tour through a travel agent, they can register with the agencies which will help them apply and register for a card and then, as soon as they arrive in Vietnam, they can receive the physical card.

The card was first launched in September of last year, with more than 2 million smart cards having been issued domestically.

VOV VOVworld Vietnam “The Viet-Smart Travel Card” smart tourism ecosystem Hoang Quoc Hoa

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Smart tourism can be the future of Vietnam’s travel destinations

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Smart tourism can transform the visitor experience and enhance the long-term competitiveness of Vietnam’s travel destinations, according to RMIT University academic Dr Jackie Ong.

An increasing number of countries across the world are investing in smart technology systems to build smart cities, driving sustainable development and improving people’s life.

In line with this universal trend, many tourism destinations are now modernising to include the use of smart technology in their operations, which range from booking services, payment methods to interactive activities and resource management.

Destinations leading the way with their smart tourism industry include Amsterdam, Barcelona, Dubai, London, Melbourne, New York, Oslo, Singapore and Tokyo.

At these destinations, tourists can use their smartphones to perform simple tasks such as self-servicing and airport check-in, paying for taxis, ordering meals, verifying queue times, and reading information on the destination or attraction that they are visiting through a supplied QR code.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of smart technology has become even more apparent. Many destinations are now employing artificial intelligence, having robots replace humans in labour-intensive work in hotels, restaurants, and amusement parks. Some also develop virtual tours or augmented tours to complement onsite tours.

Technology and talent go hand in hand

As an emerging destination with a young tech-savvy workforce, the future of Vietnam’s tourism is bright. There is ample opportunity for the tourism sector here to learn from global destinations and adopt the right technologies to transform the visitor experience, thereby enhance the long-term competitiveness of tourism.

The first obvious step for Vietnamese tourism destinations is to invest in information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure for the “5As of tourism”: accessibility, attractions, activities, amenities and ancillary services.

However, smart tourism is more than just the adoption of technology. It comprises many other aspects including sustainability, efficiency, innovation and management.

A crucial requirement is having smart human talent to manage smart tourism. Future leaders and senior managers in tourism need to be equipped with technological acumen, critical, managerial, and analytical thinking, as well as problem-solving skills in order to generate positive solutions to global sustainability issues.

Here, education and training play a crucial role. In RMIT University’s Tourism and Hospitality Management program, for example, students benefit from a focus on sustainability, authentic assessment, and work integrated learning in all courses.

In terms of curriculum, the program is including more data analytical and digital business in project assessment, with a view to prepare students for the smart digitisation era.

Further, the university also works with industry partners to expand job placements beyond the traditional working onsite in a hotel. These include online sales, online event management, and consultancy relating to smart tourism and hospitality trends.

All these strategies reflect and reinforce smart tourism practices and management. Together, they can serve the ultimate goals of smart tourism, which is to improve the efficiency of resource management, maximise competitiveness and enhance sustainability through the use of technological innovations and practices.

Story: Dr Jackie Ong, Senior Program Manager for Tourism and Hospitality Management, RMIT University

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New visa policy for foreign tourists visiting Vietnam: more open and convenient

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90 days e-visa

Starting from August 15, 2023, Vietnam will issue electronic visas (e-visa) to citizens of all countries and territories in the world visiting Vietnam via 16 land border gates and 13 sea border gates, and 13 air border gates. This is regarded as a breakthrough in promoting international relations, opening the door for people-to-people cooperation and exchange, welcoming anyone from anywhere in the world to travel to Vietnam, visit relatives, work, carry out commercial activities. Visas can be used once or multiple times.

For comparison, previously, Vietnam only applied e-visa to 80 countries, with a maximum validity period of only one month (30 days). With this new policy, foreign tourists can safely plan longer travel or business trips in Vietnam without having to worry about extending or applying for a new visa.

Visa exemption period increased three times

Aside from the new open e-visa policy, another notable policy recently issued by the Vietnamese Government involves increasing the visa exemption period for tourists from countries on the list of countries unilaterally exempted from visas by Vietnam.

Specifically, according to Resolution No. 128/NQ-CP issued by the Vietnamese Government on August 14, 2023; the time limit for granting temporary residence to citizens of 13 countries: Federal Republic of Germany, French Republic, Italian Republic, Kingdom of Spain, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Russian Federation, Japan, Republic of Korea, Kingdom of Denmark, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Norway, Republic of Finland and the Republic of Belarus have been increased three times (from 15 days up to 45 days) from the date of entry, regardless of passport type and purpose of entry, on the basis of meeting all entry conditions in accordance with the provisions of Vietnamese law.

Visa exemption for Phu Quoc

Aside from the new policies, foreign tourists visiting Vietnam may accidentally ignore the visa exemption policy for Phu Quoc. Currently, Phu Quoc is the only destination in Vietnam that applies a special visa policy with numerous advantages.

Specifically, according to Resolution No. 80/NQ-CP of the Government of Vietnam, Phu Quoc Economic Zone, Kien Giang Province is a coastal economic zone that has a visa exemption policy for foreigners to enter and stay for a period of no more than 30 days.

Foreigners who enter an international border gate of Vietnam (including by air and sea), stay in the transit area at that border gate, and then transfer to Phu Quoc island are also exempt from visa requirements under this regulation.

Phu Quoc offers a wide range of appealing experiences, from entertainment to relaxation, and has emerged as a global tourism hotspot in recent years. In 2019, CNN voted this place as one of the best destinations in Asia in 2019 and in 2021, US TIME magazine included Phu Quoc in the Top 100 best destinations in the world. Korean media refers to Phu Quoc as the "Maldives of Vietnam" and also identifies the island as a suitable destination for everyone from families to couples due to the abundance of appealing resort options by the sea. And most recently, the well-known American travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler named Phu Quoc one of the top best islands in 2023, based on reader votes.

Currently and by the end of the year, many international routes, including Korea, India, Thailand, Malaysia, and others, will operate with daily frequency in Phu Quoc. In addition, many other countries are also researching to open flights to Phu Quoc in the near future.

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• Vietnam Visa Requirements
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New policies from 15th August 2023

Vietnam grants e-visas for citizens of all countries and territories with 90-day stay duration and valid for multiple entry.

Citizens of 13 coutries enjoying unilateral visa exemption can stay in Vietnam up to 45 days.

Vietnam visa exemption

Vietnam's new visa policy effective from 15th August 2023 extends stay duration for 13 countries enjoying unilateral visa exemption from 15 days to 45 days, regardless of passport type and entry purpose. The 13 coutries include: Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Russia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Belarus.

Below is the full list of 25 countries +Kazakhstan that are exempted from visa requirement:

Brunei, Myanmar, Belarus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Russia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, The UK, The Philippines, Cambodia, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Chile, Panama.

VIETNAM ELECTRONIC VISA (E-VISA) 

From 15th August 2023, Vietnam grants e-visas for citizens of all countries and territories with 90-day stay duration and valid for multiple entry.

Here is the list of border gates that allowed foreigners enter and exit Vietnam by E-visa.

13 international airports: Noi Bai (Ha Noi), Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), Cam Ranh (Khanh Hoa), Da Nang, Cat Bi (Hai Phong), Can Tho, Phu Quoc (Kien Giang), Phu Bai (Thua Thien Hue), Van Don (Quang Ninh), Tho Xuan (Thanh Hoa), Dong Hoi (Quang Binh), Phu Cat (Binh Dinh), Lien Khuong (Lam Dong).

16 land border gates: Tay Trang (Dien Bien), Mong Cai (Quang Ninh), Huu Nghi (Lang Son), Lao Cai, Na Meo (Thanh Hoa), Nam Can (Nghe An), Cau Treo (Ha Tinh), Cha Lo (Quang Binh), La Lay and Lao Bao (Quang Tri), Bo Y (Kon Tum), Moc Bai and Xa Mat (Tay Ninh), Tinh Bien and Vinh Xuong (An Giang), Ha Tien (Kien Giang).

13 sea border gates: Hon Gai and Cam Pha (Quang Ninh), Hai Phong, Nghi Son (Thanh Hoa), Vung Ang (Ha Tinh), Chan May (Thua Thien Hue), Da Nang, Nha Trang (Khanh Hoa), Quy Nhon (Binh Dinh), Dung Quat (Quang Ngai), Vung Tau (Ba Ria - Vung Tau), Ho Chi Minh City, Duong Dong (Kien Giang).

Simply apply online for your tourist E-visa . You will receive your code by email to print your visa or access via official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department

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Best Smart Luggage of 2024 to Make Travel Easier: Shop Smart Suitcases Ahead of Summer Travel Plans

Set out in style with smart luggage from top brands that anticipates and accommodates to your needs while on the go.

If you're planning on seeing the world this summer, make sure you're ready with the right luggage for you. For some, that means carry-on luggage that can actually hold all your belongings. For others, it's the best smart luggage available. The best high-tech bags and spinners can do plenty of the heavy lifting that comes with travel for you, and with style. 

Smart luggage can include bags with charging ports to keep your electronics (especially your smartphone ) juiced up, automatic navigation to help your spinners follow you, and even built-in scooters to make getting to your next gate a breeze. 

While some of these features can make prepping for a trip pricey, you might find that the extra bit of cash adds to the convenience factor when traveling. When you don't have to search for a plug around the airport to charge your phone or you have your luggage follow you around instead of pulling it with you, you'll remember what a good investment you made. 

With that in mind, we've gathered up some of our favorite picks with a variety of smart components, from USB ports to ride-on framework and automatic, motorized luggage that goes where you go on its own. You'll also see familiar brands like Samsonite and Wrangler among some of our picks. Below, find options for the best smart luggage this year to make travel a cinch this summer. 

Best Smart Luggage of 2024

Wrangler smart luggage set.

This affordable luggage set keeps things simple with a USB port to charge up your mobile devices and a 3-in-1 cup holder to complement its hardshell exterior and double spinner wheels. It also comes in a wide variety of colors. 

Ovis Auto-Follow Suitcase

This suitcase can be filled to the brim and will follow you around the airport so you don't even have to carry it. Just charge up the battery, connect via app, and you're good to go. It sports a lightweight shell made of polycarbonate with a glossy finish in multiple colors as well. 

Olotu Cycling Suitcase

Why carry or roll your luggage around when you can ride on it instead? This load-bearing hardshell luggage has space for you to stand on it and ride it as a scooter. It supports up to 242 lbs and still has plenty of storage area for your belongings. It's pricey, but imagine being able to zip through the airport with your own transport — you can do it with this suitcase. 

Feilario Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

This affordable spinner wheel luggage comes with all the niceties you need for heading through the airport or wherever it is you're traveling from. It includes a USB port, Type-C port, a phone holder, water cup holder, and a handle hook all for your convenience. 

Iubest Luggage Carry-On Scooter Suitcase

If you're traveling with kids, help keep them out of the way and moving along with this ride on suitcase. It features a detachable scooter that the kids can jump right on and follow you along through every terminal, all without dropping their luggage somewhere. 

Faginx Electric Rideable Suitcase

This electric suitcase doesn't only follow you around, but you can ride it as well. It's a sturdy, aluminum alloy suitcase made with aviation-grade aluminum alloy. Its 250W brushless motor gets you where you're going in a snap, and if you're sitting still, you can use its lithium battery to charge up your phone and other devices. 

Luggex Carry-On Luggage with USB Port

This fashionable luggage set comes with both USB-A and USB-C charging ports so you can add your own power bank and fill up on power while out and about. It also offers a separate cosmetic case that you can carry all those important goodies in that you can't lose on the way to your destination.

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner

This bag is small enough to fit under your seat once you board the plane, so you can keep a close eye on it. It also has a USB port so you can charge everything up on the go. With its multiple pockets and other compartment features, it's perfect for just about any use case. 

$145   $108

Space Suitcases Smart Rideable Suitcase

This fun, space age-esque suitcase is half motorized scooter, half luggage. It has a built-in electric motor that means you can sit down and ride through the airport, train station, or wherever you're going. Just pack your belonging  and get gong. It has 26 liters of storage and a TSA-approved lock built-in. Plus, its 250W motor can get you where you want to go quickly, even with a full compartment. 

Nomatic Travel Pack

If you don't have enough items to necessitate a larger hardshell bag or even a larger carry-on, consider this waterproof, expandable backpack that has plenty of room for laptops, clothes, and other essentials. It has an RFID lockable security pocket, a USB port, plenty of pockets, and 30 liters of space for everything you need to bring with you. 

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